Flat feet
Introduction
Having flat feet, or 'fallen arches', means that your feet have low or no arches and press almost completely flat against theground .
The arch, or instep, is the middle part of the foot that's usually raised off the ground when you stand, while the rest of the foot remainsflat on the ground.
In young children, this arch isn't alwaysvisible because of the baby fat and soft tissue in their feet.Itusually develops and appears as they get older.
However, some people never really develop this arch. Sometimes, this is because theyinherited flat feet from their parents.
Medically Reviewed by a doctor on 28 Nov 2016
Introduction
Read about flat feet (fallen arches), including why they happen, whether they're serious and how they can be treated.
Areflat feet a problem?
Flat feet are usually nothing to worry about. Many people with flat feet don't have any associated problems, so treatment isn't necessary. However, flat feet cansometimes be associated with: pain i
When to seek medical advice
Consider seeing your GP if you have flat feet and your: feet are painful, even when wearing supportive, well-fitting shoes shoes wear out very quickly feet appear to be getting flatter feet are w
What causesflat feet?
Many people simply inheritflat feet fromtheir parents. Occasionally, flat feet can be the result of: the feet bones not forming properlyin the womb loose connective tissuethroughoutthe body, such
Treatments for flat feet
Flat feet only need to be treated if you have an associated problem, such as pain, overpronation or an underlying healthcondition. Non-surgical treatments are often recommended first, although surger
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