Flat feet: causes, symptoms and treatment
A clinically reviewed guide to flat feet — when they matter, and how symptoms are managed.
Medically reviewed by D.C Matt · Lead Director
Last reviewed 1 July 2026
- Flat feet are very common and often cause no symptoms.
- They only need treatment if they cause pain or problems.
- Strengthening and supportive footwear help symptomatic cases.
What are flat feet?
Flat feet are feet with low or absent arches, so more of the sole contacts the ground when standing.
They can be flexible (arch appears when not weight-bearing) or rigid. Flat feet are common and, in many people, are simply a normal foot shape that causes no problems.
Do flat feet cause problems?
Often no — but when symptomatic, flat feet can contribute to foot, ankle, knee or lower-leg discomfort, especially with prolonged standing or activity.
- Aching in the arch or foot
- Fatigue in the feet, ankles or lower legs
- Pain with prolonged standing or activity
- Uneven shoe wear
How are flat feet treated?
Flat feet are only treated if they cause symptoms, using foot and lower-limb strengthening, supportive footwear, and orthotics where indicated.
Strengthening the foot and hip muscles and choosing supportive footwear helps many symptomatic cases. Orthotics may be useful for some people. Painless flat feet generally need no treatment.
The Postura approach
At Postura Wellness, care for symptomatic flat feet is built around OrthoRestore™ — our signature method that combines chiropractic and physiotherapy into one coordinated plan. Depending on your assessment, it can bring together chiropractic adjustments, dry needling, muscle manipulation, Active Release Technique, and targeted exercises, supported where helpful by technology such as shockwave therapy and bioelectric therapy. The aim is to relieve symptoms while addressing the underlying causes, with a plan tailored to you.
When to seek assessment
A foot arch that collapses newly in adulthood, or a rigid, painful flat foot, should be assessed, as it can indicate a tendon or structural problem.
Sciatica FAQs
Are flat feet a problem?
Not usually. Many people with flat feet have no symptoms and need no treatment. They only warrant attention if they cause pain or problems.
Do I need orthotics for flat feet?
Not always. Orthotics can help some symptomatic people, but strengthening and supportive footwear are often enough. Treatment is individualised.
Can flat feet cause knee or back pain?
In some people, symptomatic flat feet contribute to discomfort further up the chain, though the relationship is individual.
Can physiotherapy help flat feet?
Yes, for symptomatic cases. Foot and hip strengthening plus footwear advice is the main approach.
This guide is informed by patient information from accredited medical institutions:
Get a clear plan for your
Flat feet
Book an assessment at either branch and get a tailored plan.
