Flat feet are when the arches of the feet are flattened and there is complete contact of the sole of the foot to the ground. This condition is common and usually not symptomatic. However, in some cases people experience foot pain in the arch and heel area.

Flat feet in children –Flat footedness is common in young children as their arches are not fully developed. Most children show no symptoms and outgrow it. It is important to have their feet assessed by a podiatrist if they are having pain when walking, limping or fatigued after a short period of walking or running.

Flat feet in adults –Flat feet can be acquired in their adulthood from overload, poor biomechanics or wear and tear of the ligament that are in charge of supporting the arch of the foot. Common risk factors associated with flat feet include obesity, pregnancy, injury to the lower limb, aging and diabetes.

Treatment options for flatfeet –Treatment for flatfeet is generally aimed at managing painful symptoms by improving foot biomechanics. This can be achieved through footwear advice, orthotic devices, taping, as well as stretching and strengthening exercises which targets at the intrinsic and extrinsic muscles of the foot.