What it is
Flat feet usually cause no problems and need no treatment.
If they cause pain, supportive shoes, insoles, stretching exercises and losing weight can help. Surgery is rarely needed.
Common signs
- Little or no arch when standing
- Pain in the feet, ankles or legs after activity
- Shoes wearing unevenly
How it is usually diagnosed
- Examination of the feet
- X-rays, sometimes
Records worth keeping
Keeping these together makes each appointment easier, especially when you see a new doctor:
- Podiatry or orthopaedic letters
- X-ray reports
- Insole prescriptions
Questions to ask your doctor
- Do my flat feet need treatment?
- Would insoles help?
- Could they be causing my knee or back pain?
When to get help right away
Call 112 or go to the nearest emergency department if you have:
- A foot that suddenly becomes flat, swollen and painful after an injury: get it checked the same day
This page is general information. It is not a diagnosis and does not replace a doctor who knows your history. Medfold keeps your records organised; it does not interpret them.