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ConditionsAnkle & FootFlat Feet
Structural Condition

Flat FeetArch Support

Comprehensive treatment for flat feet with supportive therapies and arch strengthening programs.

Variable
Severity
20-30%
Population
Lifelong
Management
Structural
Category
Overview

Flat feet (pes planus) is a condition where the arch of the foot is lowered or absent, causing the entire sole to come into contact with the ground. It can be flexible (arch appears when not weight bearing) or rigid.

While many people with flat feet experience no problems, others may develop pain, fatigue, or other complications. Treatment focuses on providing support and strengthening the muscles that help maintain the arch.

Types & Severity

Flexible

Arch appears when not weight bearing

Symptoms:

  • •Mild foot fatigue
  • •Occasional arch pain
  • •Normal function

Treatment:

Supportive footwear, arch supports, exercises

Prognosis:

Excellent with proper support

Rigid

No arch formation even when not weight bearing

Symptoms:

  • •Persistent foot pain
  • •Ankle stiffness
  • •Difficulty with activities

Treatment:

Custom orthotics, physical therapy, bracing

Prognosis:

Good with comprehensive treatment

Progressive

Worsening deformity with adult-acquired flatfoot

Symptoms:

  • •Severe pain and swelling
  • •Ankle instability
  • •Significant functional limitation

Treatment:

Advanced therapies, possible surgical intervention

Prognosis:

Variable, may require surgery

Treatment Approaches
1

Conservative Management

Ongoing

Support arch and reduce symptoms

Supportive footwear with good arch support
Over-the-counter arch supports
Activity modification
Anti-inflammatory medications as needed
2

Active Treatment

6-12 weeks

Strengthen supporting muscles

Custom orthotic devices
Physical therapy for foot strengthening
Calf and Achilles stretching
Posterior tibial tendon strengthening
3

Advanced Management

Variable

Address progressive deformity

Ankle-foot orthoses (AFO)
Specialized bracing
Surgical consultation if needed
Long-term management strategies
Exercise Program

Arch Strengthening

Daily

Short Foot Exercise

Shorten foot by pulling arch up

Hold 5 seconds, repeat 10 times

Towel Scrunches

Scrunch towel with toes

2-3 sets of 10-15 repetitions

Marble Pick-up

Pick up marbles with toes

10-15 marbles, 2-3 sets

Stretching

Daily, multiple times

Calf Stretch

Stretch calf muscles against wall

Hold 30 seconds, repeat 3 times

Achilles Stretch

Stretch Achilles tendon

Hold 30 seconds, repeat 3 times

Plantar Fascia Stretch

Pull toes back toward shin

Hold 30 seconds, repeat 3 times

Strengthening

Daily

Posterior Tibial Strengthening

Inversion exercises with resistance

2-3 sets of 10-15 repetitions

Single Leg Calf Raises

Rise up on one foot

2-3 sets of 8-12 repetitions

Balance Training

Single leg balance exercises

Hold 30 seconds, repeat 3 times
Risk Factors

Congenital

Genetic predisposition
Tarsal coalition
Cerebral palsy
Muscular dystrophy

Acquired

Posterior tibial tendon dysfunction
Arthritis
Injury or trauma
Pregnancy

Lifestyle

Obesity
Aging
Diabetes
Prolonged standing
Recommended for Arch Support

Flat Feet Support Products

Find comfort and support with our specialized arch supports, custom orthotics, and supportive footwear designed to provide the structure your feet need.

Recommended Products

Arch Support

Arch Support Insoles

Structural support and comfort

Custom Orthotics

Personalized arch support

Supportive Footwear

Motion Control Shoes

Stability and arch support

Ankle Braces

Additional stability support

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