Flexible or rigid?
A flexible flat foot has an arch when you sit or stand on tiptoe but flattens when you stand. A rigid flat foot stays flat. Flexible flat feet are common and often painless. A foot that has recently become flatter, especially on one side, should be assessed.
Why a foot rolls in
Overpronation, the foot rolling in too far, is sometimes about foot structure. Often though, it is the foot compensating for something else: a stiff ankle that can't bend, tension in the calf, or rotation coming from the hip and pelvis. Hypermobility can also play a part.
How we help
- A biomechanical assessment of how your foot, ankle and leg move together.
- Mobilisation and fascial work to restore ankle movement so the foot doesn't have to compensate.
- Strength and control exercises for the foot and hip.
- Footwear advice for your activities.
- Custom orthotics when they will help, rather than as the automatic answer.
For children's flat feet, see children's flat feet and gait.
Common questions
Do flat feet always need insoles?
No. If they aren't causing problems they often need nothing at all. Orthotics are used when they will genuinely help.
Can flat feet cause knee pain?
They can contribute, especially when the foot rolls in and the shin rotates. We look at the whole chain to find out.