Flat Feet (Fallen Arches) Treatment

Understanding Your Feet Is The First Step Towards Moving Comfortably.  Do You Have Flat Feet, Fallen Arches Or Tired, Aching Feet?

Flat feet, sometimes referred to as fallen arches, occur when the arches on the inside of the feet are lower than expected or have reduced over time.

For some people, flat feet cause no symptoms at all.

For others, they can contribute to foot pain, fatigue, reduced mobility and changes in the way the body moves.

Many people become concerned when they notice their feet look flatter than they used to or begin experiencing discomfort during walking, exercise or prolonged standing.

At Callen Olive, we regularly assess and support adults with flat feet, helping people understand their foot posture, identify the cause of symptoms and explore the most appropriate treatment options for their lifestyle and goals.

You're Not Alone

Flat feet are extremely common.

We regularly assess and treat people who:

• Have always had flat feet

• Have noticed their arches flattening over time

• Experience tired or aching feet

• Are struggling to walk as far as they used to

• Have developed foot, ankle or knee pain

• Simply want to understand their feet better

Many people worry that having flat feet automatically means something is wrong.

In reality, the shape of your feet is only one part of the picture.

You are not alone.

Our experienced clinicians understand that every foot functions differently and are here to help you understand your feet and move comfortably and confidently.

What Are Flat Feet?

The arch of the foot plays an important role in:

• Shock absorption

• Weight distribution

• Stability

• Movement efficiency

• Adapting to different surfaces

When the arch is lower than expected, the foot may roll inwards more than normal during walking and standing.

This is known as pronation.

Some pronation is entirely normal and helps the foot function effectively.

Problems may arise when excessive pronation contributes to increased strain through the feet, ankles or lower limbs.

Are Flat Feet Always A Problem?

No.

Many people have naturally flat feet and experience no pain or limitations whatsoever.

The shape of the foot alone does not determine whether treatment is required.

At Callen Olive, we focus on:

• Symptoms

• Function

• Mobility

• Activity levels

• Individual goals

Rather than simply treating foot posture.

We treat people, not foot shapes.

How Can Flat Feet Affect Everyday Life?

Not everyone with flat feet experiences symptoms.

However, some people may notice:

• Aching feet

• Tired feet

• Heel pain

• Arch pain

• Ankle pain

• Leg fatigue

• Knee discomfort

• Reduced walking endurance

• Difficulty standing for prolonged periods

• Reduced confidence during exercise

Symptoms often become more noticeable after prolonged standing, walking or activity.

For some people, the impact on comfort and quality of life can be significant.

Can Flat Feet Develop In Adulthood?

Yes.

This is one of the biggest misconceptions surrounding flat feet.

Many people assume they would have known if they had flat feet because they would have always had them.

However, changes in tendons, ligaments and joints can sometimes lead to progressive flattening of the arch over time.

This is known as adult-acquired flat foot.

What Causes Adult Flat Feet?

There is rarely one single cause.

Several factors may contribute to flattening of the arch.

Natural Foot Structure

Some people are simply born with lower arches.

Ageing

Changes within tendons, ligaments and joints may affect arch height and support over time.

Weight Changes

Increased loading through the feet may place additional strain on supporting structures.

Injury

Previous injuries may affect foot posture and function.

Posterior Tibial Tendon Dysfunction (PTTD)

One of the most common causes of adult-acquired flat feet.

The posterior tibial tendon plays an important role in supporting the arch and controlling foot movement during walking.

When this tendon becomes weakened or damaged, the arch may gradually collapse.

Often, multiple factors are involved rather than one single cause.

How Can Flat Feet Affect The Rest Of The Body?

Your feet provide the foundation for movement.

Changes in foot posture can sometimes influence loading through:

• Ankles

• Knees

• Hips

• Lower back

Flat feet do not automatically cause pain elsewhere in the body.

However, understanding movement patterns can often provide valuable insight into recurring symptoms and help explain why some people experience discomfort beyond their feet.

Flat Feet & Sport

Many active adults successfully participate in:

• Running

• Golf

• Walking

• Pilates

• Yoga

• Racquet sports

with flat feet.

The goal is not necessarily to change your foot posture.

The goal is to optimise comfort, efficiency and movement.

Professional assessment can help identify factors that may be contributing to discomfort during activity and provide advice tailored to your individual goals.

How We Assess Adult Flat Feet

Assessment begins by understanding your symptoms and how they are affecting your everyday life.

This may include:

• Medical history

• Foot posture evaluation

• Biomechanical assessment

• OptoGait gait analysis

• Joint mobility testing

• Footwear review

• Activity and lifestyle assessment

We take time to understand your symptoms, goals and the activities that matter most to you.

By understanding how your feet function, we can create a personalised treatment plan designed around your individual needs and goals.

Your Personalised Treatment Plan

Treatment recommendations depend on your symptoms, activity levels and individual goals.

Management may include:

Footwear Advice

Appropriate footwear can often significantly improve support and comfort.

Strengthening & Rehabilitation

Targeted exercises may help support foot function, improve lower limb strength and enhance movement efficiency.

Custom Foot Orthotics

For some people, Custom Foot Orthotics may help improve comfort, support the foot and reduce excessive strain on affected structures.

Activity Modification

Temporary changes to activity levels may sometimes help manage symptoms whilst maintaining fitness and function.

Our goal is not simply to change the shape of your feet.

Our goal is to help you move comfortably and confidently.

Does Every Flat Foot Need An Orthotic?

No.

This is one of the biggest myths surrounding flat feet.

Many people assume they automatically require orthotics simply because they have low arches.

This is not always the case.

Treatment recommendations should be based on:

• Symptoms

• Function

• Activity levels

• Individual goals

Rather than arch height alone.

For some people, education and reassurance are all that is required.

For others, footwear advice, exercises or orthotics may provide significant benefits.

Our role is to help identify the most appropriate solution for you.

Why Choose Callen Olive?

We Care.

We understand that foot posture is only one part of the picture.

Many people come to us worried about fallen arches, foot pain or changes in the way they walk.

Others simply want to remain active and understand what their feet need to continue moving comfortably.

Our experienced clinicians combine expert assessment, biomechanics and personalised treatment planning to understand how your feet function and create treatment plans tailored to your individual needs and goals.

Because caring for your feet isn't simply about changing foot posture.

It's about helping you move with comfort, confidence and ease.

Healthy Feet. Healthy Body. Healthy Mind.

Treatment Fees

No two patients are the same.

That's why every treatment plan is tailored to your individual needs, lifestyle and goals. Following your assessment, your clinician will explain the treatment options available and help you choose the most appropriate pathway to achieve the best possible outcome.

Our focus is always on helping you achieve the best possible outcome for your comfort, mobility and long-term wellbeing.

New Patient Biomechanics Assessment: £180
New Patient Biomechanics Assessment with Principal Podiatrist: £225

Our team will support you throughout every stage of your recovery to ensure you feel informed, reassured and cared for.

If you are unsure which appointment is most suitable, our Patient Care Team will be happy to help.

Call us on +44 333 305 8347.

Related Conditions

• Posterior Tibial Tendon Dysfunction (PTTD)

• Plantar Fasciitis

• Heel Pain

• Achilles Tendinopathy

• Arthritis

Related Treatments

• Biomechanical Assessment

• OptoGait Gait Analysis

• Custom Foot Orthotics

• Shockwave Therapy

Learn More

• Flat Feet In Children

• Walking For Wellbeing

• Active Ageing & Foot Health

• Running & Foot Health

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Flat Feet Always A Problem?

No. Many people have flat feet and experience no pain or limitations. Treatment is based on symptoms, function and individual goals rather than foot shape alone.

Can Flat Feet Cause Foot Pain?

For some people, flat feet may contribute to foot pain, fatigue or increased strain on certain structures. Others experience no symptoms whatsoever.

Can Flat Feet Cause Knee Or Back Pain?

Flat feet do not automatically cause pain elsewhere in the body. However, changes in movement patterns may sometimes contribute to symptoms affecting other areas.

Do I Need Orthotics If I Have Flat Feet?

Not necessarily. Many people with flat feet do not require orthotics. Recommendations should always be tailored to your symptoms, function and lifestyle.

Can Adults Develop Flat Feet Later In Life?

Yes. Changes in tendons, ligaments and joints can sometimes lead to progressive flattening of the arch over time.

Can I Still Exercise If I Have Flat Feet?

Absolutely. Many people with flat feet successfully participate in walking, running, golf, Pilates and other activities. The goal is often to optimise comfort and movement rather than change foot posture.

Ready To Understand Your Feet Better?

Flat feet don't always need fixing. They need understanding.

Whether you're experiencing foot pain, reduced mobility or simply want to understand your foot posture better, our experienced team is here to help.

Book your assessment today and take the first step towards moving with comfort, confidence and ease.