Foot Pain – Fallen Arches

Fallen Arches

The correct name for fallen arches or flat feet is pes planus. This is a condition where there is little to no arch on the inside of the foot. When standing the inside of the foot comes down to the floor rather than remaining raised or arched. It is a relatively common foot deformity and is estimated that between 20-30% of people have pes planus. It can affect one foot or both feet.

Flat feet may be genetic and be genetic and run in families. It can be acquired by stretching of the tissues in the feet from injury, obesity or just advancing age. Even pregnancy can cause fallen arches in some women. Certain conditions that affect the structures of the body such as muscles, bones and nerves can cause fallen arches. Fallen arches are common in people with cerebral palsy, spina bifida and down’s syndrome for example.

For some people flat feet cause no pain or other problems. However, it can lead to foot and ankle pain. Some people may develop plantar fasciitis. It may become more difficult to perform high-impact or intense activities. As the feet are the foundation fallen arches can also contribute to knee, hip and back pain.

If someone has symptomatic flat foot or pes planus often an insole with a good arch support is recommended. An insole can help hold the foot in a better position and reduce stress and strain on the structures of the foot.

The insoles we recommend for fallen arches are: PRIMO (1), POSA (2), PELUCHE (3), PROFILO (4), PURA (5) or PRECISO (6)