Flat feet, also known as flatfoot, is a condition in which you have little to no arch in one or both of your feet. When you stand, the entire sole of your foot touches the ground. 

The arch in the foot usually develops by age six; however, you may never form one. In adults, the foot arch may also collapse. 

There are many types of flat feet. The team at Innovation Medical Group determines type based on the age of onset and the degree of arch support or your lack of support.

Flexible flat feet
Flexible flat feet is the most common type. With this foot condition, you have visible arches when not standing, but the arch disappears when you put weight on your feet. 

Flexible flat feet develop during childhood or adolescence and worsen over time.

Rigid flat feet
With rigid flat feet, you have no arch when sitting or standing. You may develop rigid flat feet during adolescence. This type of flat feet gets worse as you get older and may cause foot pain.

Adult-acquired flat feet
Adult-acquired flat feet, also known as fallen arches, occur when your arch falls unexpectedly. This type of flat feet affects the mechanics of your feet, causing the foot to turn outward when you walk, which may cause pain.

Vertical talus
Vertical talus is a congenital condition that prevents arches from forming because the talus bone in the ankle is in the wrong position.

Acquired flat feet
Acquired flat feet occur when the tendon in the back of your foot is inflamed or torn.

If you have flat feet, you should schedule an appointment with the podiatry team at Innovation Medical Group. Even if your flat feet cause no problems, getting an evaluation may prevent future problems.

You also need podiatry care for flat feet when they cause symptoms like foot pain or muscle aches. The team also recommends you schedule an appointment when your flat feet cause your toes to point outward. This is known as toe drift.

The Innovation Medical Group team customizes your flat feet treatment plan based on type and symptoms. Treatment may include:

• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
• Custom-made orthotics
• Stretching and strengthening exercises
• Physical therapy

Treatment for your flat feet may prevent other foot and ankle problems, such as arthritis or bone spurs.