Flat Feet and Fallen Arches
Flat feet, also known as fallen arches or pes planus, are a common foot condition that can affect both children and adults. While many people with flat feet experience no symptoms, others develop pain in their feet, ankles, knees, hips, or lower back due to altered foot mechanics.
At Sussex Total Foot Care, we provide comprehensive assessment and treatment for flat feet. Our experienced podiatrists identify how your foot posture is affecting your movement and develop a personalised treatment plan to relieve pain, improve function, and help prevent future problems.
What Are Flat Feet?
A flat foot has a lower than normal arch, causing more of the sole of the foot to come into contact with the ground when standing.
Some people are born with flat feet, while others develop them over time due to changes in muscles, tendons, ligaments, injury, ageing, or medical conditions.
Having flat feet does not automatically mean treatment is needed. Treatment is recommended when the condition causes pain, affects mobility, or contributes to other foot or lower limb problems.
What Causes Flat Feet?
Flat feet can develop for a variety of reasons, including:
- Natural foot structure
- Ligament laxity (hypermobility)
- Posterior tibial tendon dysfunction
- Age-related changes
- Injury to the foot or ankle
- Arthritis
- Obesity
- Pregnancy
- Certain neurological or muscular conditions
In children, flexible flat feet are common and often develop normally as the foot grows. However, persistent pain or difficulty walking should always be assessed.
Symptoms of Flat Feet
Not everyone with flat feet experiences symptoms, but when problems occur they may include:
- Pain in the arch of the foot
- Heel pain
- Aching feet after standing or walking
- Ankle pain
- Swelling along the inside of the ankle
- Tired or fatigued feet
- Frequent ankle sprains
- Knee, hip, or lower back pain
- Difficulty exercising
- Uneven shoe wear
Symptoms often worsen after prolonged standing, walking, or sporting activities.
How We Diagnose Flat Feet
At Sussex Total Foot Care, we carry out a detailed assessment to understand how your feet function and whether your flat feet are contributing to your symptoms.
Your assessment includes:
- Discussion of your symptoms and medical history
- Examination of your foot posture
- Assessment of arch height and flexibility
- Joint mobility testing
- Muscle strength assessment
- Gait (walking) analysis
- Biomechanical assessment
- Footwear assessment
If clinically appropriate, we may recommend imaging such as X-rays or ultrasound to investigate structural changes or tendon injuries.
Why Choose Sussex Total Foot Care?
Patients across Worthing and West Sussex choose Sussex Total Foot Care because we provide:
- HCPC-registered podiatrists
- Comprehensive biomechanical assessments
- Evidence-based treatment
- Individualised rehabilitation programmes
- High-quality orthotic therapy when clinically indicated
- Friendly, patient-centred care
- Practical advice to help prevent future problems
Our aim is to improve the way your feet function so you can stay active and comfortable.
When Should You See a Podiatrist?
Arrange an assessment if:
- Your flat feet are causing pain
- Walking or standing is uncomfortable
- You experience repeated ankle sprains
- You have pain in your knees, hips, or lower back that may be related to your foot posture
- Your child has painful flat feet or difficulty keeping up with normal activities
- Home treatments have not improved your symptoms
Early assessment can help prevent ongoing strain on the feet and lower limbs.
Flat Feet FAQs
Do flat feet always need treatment?
No. If your flat feet are painless and not causing problems, they usually need no treatment. We treat symptoms, not appearance alone.
Can flat feet be corrected?
In adults, the aim is usually to support the foot and relieve symptoms rather than to change the arch permanently. Orthotics do this very effectively.
Are flat feet a problem in children?
Flat feet are normal in young children and most develop an arch over time. If a child has pain or difficulty, it is worth an assessment.
Book an Assessment in Worthing
Arrange your appointment online through our booking system or contact the clinic.