Flat Feet Physiotherapy
Flat feet describe a lower or flatter foot arch during standing or weight-bearing. Many people with flat feet have no pain or functional problems and do not require treatment. Assessment may be useful when a low arch is associated with foot fatigue, foot or ankle discomfort, difficulty with prolonged standing, or concerns about gait and lower-limb loading.
If symptoms are mainly focused around the heel or inner sole and are particularly noticeable with the first steps after rest, you may also refer to [Plantar Fasciitis Physiotherapy].
Common presentations
- A lower or flatter foot arch during standing
- Foot fatigue after prolonged standing or walking
- Foot, ankle or calf discomfort during activity
- A sense of uneven lower-limb loading during running or sport
- Questions about footwear or whether insoles may be appropriate
How physiotherapy assesses
Physiotherapy usually begins by looking at whether pain or fatigue is present, which standing, walking, running or sporting activities provoke symptoms, and whether the lower foot arch is actually affecting everyday function. Where appropriate, ankle movement, foot and lower-limb strength, gait, single-leg loading, lower-limb alignment and loading pattern may also be assessed.
Assessment focuses not simply on whether the arch is “high or low”, but on whether foot structure, movement and loading are relevant to the person’s symptoms and functional needs.
How physiotherapy may help
Where flat feet are associated with foot or lower-limb symptoms, physiotherapy may include foot, ankle and lower-limb strengthening, activity and gait advice, and graded adjustment of standing, walking, running or sporting load. Footwear or insole options may also be considered where appropriate according to symptoms, activity needs and loading pattern.
If there is no pain or functional limitation, treatment is generally not required simply to change the appearance of the arch.
If you would like a more detailed assessment of gait, ankle movement, lower-limb loading or whether footwear or insoles may be relevant, you may also refer to [Foot & Lower Limb Biomechanical Assessment].
Related Conditions
Plantar Fasciitis
Achilles Tendinopathy
Knee Pain
Not sure whether your condition falls into this category?
You may first arrange a physiotherapy assessment to understand the more suitable management approach according to your symptoms, activity needs, and rehabilitation goals.