FLAT FOOT
What is a Flat Foot?
Flat foot (or pes planus) is a condition where the arches of the feet are lowered or completely flattened, causing the entire sole to touch the ground. While some people have no symptoms, many face discomfort, poor posture, or walking difficulties.
This condition can affect both children and adults and may worsen over time without treatment.
Common Flat Foot Symptoms
Flat foot may cause:
Pain in the foot, heel, arch, ankle, or even knees and lower back
Fatigue after walking or standing for long periods
Swelling on the inner side of the ankle
Difficulty in standing on toes
Uneven wear on shoes
Poor posture or gait changes
These symptoms may worsen after prolonged physical activity.
What Causes Flat Foot?
Flat foot can develop due to a variety of reasons. In many cases, it is inherited and runs in families. Some people are born with weak or underdeveloped foot arches that never fully form. Injury or trauma to the foot or ankle can also lead to arch collapse. As people age, the tendons and ligaments in the foot may weaken, especially the posterior tibial tendon, which plays a key role in supporting the arch. Other contributing factors include obesity, which puts extra pressure on the feet, as well as medical conditions like arthritis, diabetes, and certain neurological disorders. In some cases, flat foot can also occur due to abnormal foot development during childhood.
Flat Foot Diagnosis
A flat foot treatment doctor will perform a physical examination and assess your gait, posture, and range of motion.
Diagnosing flat foot begins with a physical examination. The flat foot treatment doctor will observe your feet while standing, walking, and rising on your toes to assess the arch and foot function. They may check for flexibility, muscle strength, and any areas of tenderness or swelling. A footprint test or gait analysis may also be done to evaluate how your foot strikes the ground. In some cases, imaging tests like X-rays, ultrasound, or MRI scans are recommended to examine bone alignment, joint structure, or any damage to tendons—especially the posterior tibial tendon. These diagnostic steps help determine the type and severity of flat foot and guide the appropriate treatment plan.ation
Flat Foot Treatment
Treatment depends on the severity of symptoms. Many cases can be managed conservatively without surgery.
Conservative Treatment Includes:
Supportive footwear with proper arch support
Custom orthotics or insoles
Stretching and strengthening exercises for foot and calf muscles
Weight management to reduce foot stress
Anti-inflammatory medications for pain relief
Physiotherapy and activity modification
Flat Foot Treatment in Children
Flat feet in children are usually flexible and resolve with age. However, if pain, fatigue, or walking issues occur, early flat foot treatment in children is essential.
Treatment options for children include:
Supportive shoes or arch inserts
Physical therapy
Monitoring for signs of progression
In rare cases, surgery may be needed if deformity worsens or affects daily life.
When to See a Flat Foot Treatment Doctor
You should consult a flat foot treatment doctor if you or your child experiences:
Persistent foot or leg pain
Swelling or stiffness in the ankle or arch
Difficulty walking, running, or standing for long periods
Uneven shoe wear or change in foot shape
Worsening symptoms despite home care
Advanced or Surgical Options
Surgery is only considered if all non-surgical treatments fail. Surgical options may include:
Tendon repair or transfer
Bone realignment or osteotomy
Fusion of foot joints in severe deformity
Our orthopedic specialists evaluate each case thoroughly to provide the best treatment plan.
Get Expert Flat Foot Treatment
Whether you’re dealing with flat foot problems yourself or concerned about your child’s foot structure, our experienced team is here to help. We provide expert care for both adults and children with advanced diagnostics and personalized treatment plans.
📞 Book your consultation today with a trusted flat foot treatment doctor and take the first step toward pain-free walking.
frequently
asked questions
Flat foot problems include pain in the arch or heel, ankle swelling, leg fatigue, and poor posture. Over time, untreated flat feet can lead to issues like plantar fasciitis, shin splints, and even knee or back pain due to poor body alignment.
Yes. Most cases of flat foot can be managed with non-surgical treatments like supportive footwear, custom orthotics, stretching exercises, and physiotherapy. Surgery is usually considered only when these conservative treatments don’t provide relief.
Flat foot treatment in children often starts with simple measures like arch-support shoes, strengthening exercises, and activity modifications. Most children outgrow flexible flat feet, but if pain or walking difficulty occurs, it’s important to consult a specialist early.
You should see a flat foot treatment doctor if you experience persistent foot pain, difficulty walking, swelling in the ankle, or changes in foot shape. Early evaluation helps prevent complications and provides the right treatment approach tailored to your needs.
If you’re looking for expert flat foot treatment in Bhubaneswar, Dr. Shakti Swaroop and his team offer advanced diagnostics, personalized care plans, and both non-surgical and surgical options for flat foot problems in children and adults. Book a consultation today with Dr. Shakti Swaroop for specialized and compassionate flat foot care.