Flat feet and fallen arches
With flat feet or fallen arches, the arch collapses (too far) when standing and walking. As a result the foot, ankle and knee turn inwards. Not every flat foot causes complaints, but tired feet, arch pain or complaints higher up the leg are common.
Symptoms and causes
- Feet that tire quickly or hurt, especially after standing for long
- Pain in the arch or on the inside of the ankle
- Shoes wearing down unevenly on the inside
- Knee, shin or back complaints because the leg turns inwards
Causes include genetics, flexible (hypermobile) ligaments, excess weight, prolonged standing and overloading of the posterior tibial muscle.
How handmade insoles help
A handmade insole supports the arch and straightens the heel so the weight is distributed properly over the foot again and the leg turns inwards less. Because we build the insole by hand, we can tune the amount of support precisely: enough support, but not so much that the foot is forced. In children we take growth into account; many children’s flat feet cause no complaints and need no treatment.
What you can do – and when to see a doctor
Wear sturdy shoes with a good heel counter, strengthen your foot and calf muscles with simple exercises and build up load gradually.
If the pain does not improve after a few weeks, if there is swelling, redness or loss of sensation, or if you have diabetes or rheumatism, also have the complaint assessed by your GP.
Scientific evidence
- Most flat feet in children cause no complaints and need no treatment; when there is pain, insoles and exercises can help. Evans AM, Rome K A Cochrane review of the evidence for non-surgical interventions for flexible pediatric flat feet. Eur J Phys Rehabil Med. 2011;47:69-89. PubMed 21448121
Trouble with your feet? We are happy to help.
First consultation usually within 1 week, in Oldenzaal, Denekamp or Losser.