Flat feet, also known as fallen arches, is a condition causing one or both feet to have little to no arch.
The human foot has a complex structure with 26 bones, 30 joints and over 100 muscles, tendons, and ligaments. All these parts work together like fine-tuned machinery to carry the body weight and propel its movement while giving the foot flexibility to adapt to different surfaces.
The arch of the foot plays a vital role in weight-bearing and stability. It springs to the step and helps distribute body weight across the feet and legs. Its structure also determines how a person walks. Hence, the arches need to be both sturdy and flexible to adapt to stress and various surfaces.
People with flat feet have no visible arch — the entire sole of their feet touches the ground when they’re standing. As a result, the natural mechanism of the foot is impeded, causing the malfunction of muscles, ligaments and tendons. When the different parts of the foot don’t function properly, the foot cannot provide the support your body needs, leading to foot pain. Flat feet can also cause discomfort in the hips, knees, and lower back area.
Some of the most common symptoms of having flat feet are:
- Tiredness in the feet with little movement or exercise
- Pain in the arches and heels
- Swollenness in the inside area of the hindfoot
- Difficulty when standing on your toes
- Back and leg pain
