Common symptoms of flat feet
- Foot arches that visibly collapse or flatten completely upon standing
- Tired, aching feet and arch fatigue after walking, working, or standing for long periods
- Pain along the inside of the ankle or lower leg (posterior tibial tendon strain)
- Compensatory pain in the knees, hips, or lower back with no other obvious cause
- Rapid or asymmetrical wear on the inside edges of shoes and trainers
What causes flat feet?
- Genetic predisposition, flexible joints, and familial flat foot anatomy
- Posterior Tibial Tendon Dysfunction (PTTD) causing adult-acquired flat foot
- Ligamentous laxity and generalized joint hypermobility spectrum
- Prolonged standing on hard occupational surfaces without adequate arch support
- Excess body weight placing increased vertical load across the tarsal bones
When to Seek Professional Treatment
If flat feet are causing foot aching, arch fatigue, shin splints, inner ankle pain, knee alignment discomfort, or uneven shoe wear, a biomechanical assessment is recommended to prevent progressive tendon strain.
