Flat feet are more common than many people realize—and for some, they can lead to ongoing foot pain, knee issues, or even back discomfort. If you’ve ever noticed aching feet after walking, shoes wearing out unevenly, or your arches disappearing when you stand, you may be dealing with flat feet.
In this guide, we’ll break down the 7 most common signs of flat feet, explain what causes flat feet, and walk you through proven ways to fix flat feet pain, including exercises, footwear, and professional care options available in Markham.
What Are Flat Feet?
Flat feet occur when the arches of the feet collapse or never fully develop, causing the entire sole to make contact with the ground. Some people have flat feet from childhood, while others develop them later in life due to injury, aging, or medical conditions.
Flat Feet vs Normal Feet
-
Normal feet: A visible arch when standing
-
Flat feet: Little to no arch when weight-bearing
-
Collapsed arch vs flat feet: A collapsed arch often refers to arches that were once normal but have fallen over time
Not all flat feet cause pain—but when symptoms appear, treatment is important to prevent worsening problems.
7 Common Flat Feet Symptoms
Here are the most common flat feet symptoms seen by foot specialists:
1. Ongoing Foot Pain
Pain often appears in the heel, arch, or along the inside of the ankle, especially after standing or walking.
2. Tired, Achy Legs
Flat feet can strain muscles and tendons, causing fatigue in the feet and lower legs.
3. Swelling Along the Inside of the Ankle
This may indicate posterior tibial tendon stress, a common flat feet problem.
4. Uneven Shoe Wear
Shoes often wear down faster on the inside edge due to poor alignment.
5. Knee, Hip, or Lower Back Pain
Flat feet affect posture and alignment, which can lead to pain beyond the feet.
6. Difficulty Standing for Long Periods
People with flat feet may feel discomfort sooner than expected.
7. Loss of Balance or Stability
A fallen arch can reduce shock absorption and stability.
What Causes Flat Feet?
Understanding what causes flat feet helps guide treatment. Common causes include:
-
Genetics (inherited foot structure)
-
Weak or overstretched tendons
-
Injuries to the foot or ankle
-
Arthritis or diabetes
-
Aging and prolonged standing
-
Pregnancy and weight changes
In many adults, flat feet develop gradually rather than suddenly.
Can You Fix Flat Feet?
A common question we hear is: Can flat feet be corrected?
The answer depends on age and severity.
-
Children: Flat feet often improve naturally
-
Adults: Flat feet usually can’t be “cured,” but they can be effectively managed
So while you may not permanently change foot structure, you can fix flat feet pain, improve function, and prevent further damage with the right care.
Proven Ways to Fix Flat Feet Pain
1. Flat Feet Exercises
Targeted flat feet exercises help strengthen muscles that support the arch.
Examples include:
-
Heel raises
-
Toe curls with a towel
-
Arch lifts
-
Calf stretches
These exercises can reduce strain and improve stability when done consistently.
2. Best Shoes for Flat Feet
Wearing supportive footwear is essential.
The best shoes for flat feet typically offer:
-
Firm arch support
-
Motion control or stability
-
Cushioned heels
-
Wide, supportive soles
If you’re active, choosing the best running shoes for flat feet can significantly reduce impact-related pain and injury risk.
3. Insoles for Flat Feet
Over-the-counter insoles for flat feet can provide short-term relief, but they’re often designed for generic foot shapes.
For lasting support, custom solutions are usually more effective.
4. Orthotics for Flat Feet
Orthotics for flat feet are custom-made inserts designed to:
-
Support the arch
-
Improve alignment
-
Reduce foot, knee, and back pain
-
Prevent further joint stress
At Mount Joy Foot Clinic, custom Markham orthotics are created based on your unique foot structure and walking pattern.
5. Professional Flat Feet Treatments in Markham
If pain persists, professional care makes a difference. A foot assessment may include:
-
Gait analysis
-
Biomechanical evaluation
-
Custom orthotic fitting
-
Ongoing treatment plans
These flat feet treatments in Markham help address the root cause—not just the symptoms.
Flat Feet Problems You Shouldn’t Ignore
Left untreated, flat feet problems can lead to:
-
Plantar fasciitis
-
Tendon injuries
-
Bunions and hammertoes
-
Arthritis
-
Chronic knee and back pain
Early intervention helps prevent long-term complications.
How Mount Joy Foot Clinic & Orthotic Centre Can Help
At Mount Joy Foot Clinic & Orthotic Centre, patients receive personalized care for flat feet and related conditions. The clinic offers:
-
Comprehensive foot assessments
-
Custom orthotics designed in-clinic
-
Evidence-based treatment plans
-
Local expertise serving Markham and surrounding communities
Whether you need help choosing footwear, managing pain, or exploring long-term solutions, professional guidance ensures safer and more effective results.
You can learn more about their flat feet services by visiting their flat feet resource page, exploring their orthotics services, or browsing the clinic’s blog for additional foot health insights.
Final Thoughts: Don’t Ignore Flat Feet Pain
Flat feet don’t always cause problems—but when they do, ignoring the signs can lead to ongoing discomfort and mobility issues. Recognizing the symptoms early and choosing the right combination of exercises, footwear, and professional care can dramatically improve comfort and quality of life.
If you’re experiencing persistent foot pain or suspect flat feet are affecting your movement, a professional assessment can help you take the next step toward relief.
