The arch is referred to as the gap between the inner side of the foot and the ground, flat feet is a condition in which the foot doesn't have a normal arch. It may affect one foot or both feet. Patients that have a low arch or no arch commonly refer to their condition as flat feet or fallen arches. Fallen arches can cause problems such bunions, callus, corns, achilles tendonitis, shin pain, severe heel pain, knee and ankle pain.

A symptom to watch for is abnormal shoe wear. People with flat feet typically have shoes that break down the inside wall of the heel counter and the outside of the forefoot area. A good test is to look at your foot print. A foot with a normal arch does not leave much of an arch impression since the arch is mostly off the ground. A flat foot person leaves more of an impression. The primary cause of flat feet is over pronation. This can be controlled via insoles. People with flat feet or low arches who have been forced to live with back, knee and foot pain no longer have to put up with pain while standing, walking or running. View the Dr Foot insoles range.

The use of flat feet orthotics has been researched and tested by leading institutions around the world, and is widely accepted in the medical community. Flat feet insoles and orthotics are used in both public and private hospitals and clinics.

Clinical studies and field research verify the value of orthotics in relieving flat feet and improving structural integrity. Flexible orthotics control foot motion without restricting function and creating compensatory movement in other structures.

Sources:

American Academy of Orthotists and Prosthetists

Anthony RJ (1991) The Manufacture and Use of Functional Foot Orthoses.

Valmassey R (1998) Clinical Biomechanics of the Lower Extremity.

Whing W , Zernicke R(1998). Biomechanics of Musculoskeletal Injury.

Journal of Applied Biomechanics

Traditional Treatment

Flat Feet insoles have been used for years to help people with fallen arches. Traditionally when we think of insoles or orthotics we think of a hard plastic insert that is placed in the shoe. It cups the heel and supports the arch but because it is not flexible it does not extend the full length of the foot. This tends to make this type of orthotic uncomfortable, and ineffective for many people. It also repositions the arch using "brute force." Because it is not flexible it forces the arch into it's correct position but does nothing to relieve the pressure that is forcing the arch to collapse, causing flat feet in the first place.

This type of hard plastic orthotic can actually cause increased pain in patients, which is the reason why we have recommended the Dr Foot's Sport Insoles for the treatment of flat feet. They provide a flexible yet incredibly supportive and stable treatment for fallen arches.

Having feet that are flat or pronated means that the arch of your foot is collapsed or lowered. This collapsing of the long arch of the foot can lead to more severe problems of the foot and ankle. Misalignment of the fragile bones of the feet can lead to arthritic pain, ligament destabilization, tendonitis and severe heel pain.

Dr Foot's Insoles (orthotics) are designed to raise the arch, realign the foot, reduce pain and distribute weight evenly which also minimizes strain to the knees and spine.

Dr Foot's Insoles work wonders on problem-prone feet. These Insoles are biomechanically engineered to help relieve flat feet. The contoured shape supports your feet in two directions, both lengthwise and across the arch, for maximum relief of pain and fatigue.

The special poron heel cushion and the comfortable arch support helps to reduce shock absorption and fatigue. Dr Foot's Insoles are engineered to combat over pronation and provide greater stability and maximum support. Ideal for patients seeking arch support for prevention and treatment of flat feet and general arch pain.

"I would thoroughly recommend Dr Foot's Sport Insoles to anyone with low arches or flat feet. They are ideal for walking around the city, but also for running, cycling and hill walking. I had avoided walking even short distances as my knees and ankles ached. Within one week of wearing the sport insoles I was so much more comfortable - it was amazing the difference the insoles made."