Flat Feet (Pes Planus),Causes, Symptoms & Treatment in Whitby
We provide comprehensive flat feet treatment in Whitby, helping patients manage pain, improve alignment, and prevent long‑term complications. Whether your flat feet are hereditary, age‑related, or caused by biomechanical issues, our chiropodists offer evidence‑based solutions including custom orthotics, footwear guidance, taping, and physical therapy.
What Are Flat Feet?
Flat feet (pes planus) occur when the medial longitudinal arch lowers or collapses. Many people have flat feet from childhood, while others develop symptoms later in life. Some cases remain painless, but others lead to strain, fatigue, and progressive discomfort. Flat feet often occur in both feet and may have a hereditary component. They are more common in certain ethnic groups and can become more symptomatic with age.
Why Flat Feet Cause Pain
In flexible flatfoot, the medial arch is unstable. As the heel lifts during gait, the foot bends excessively, placing stress on soft tissues and joints. This instability can cause:
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Tired, sore arches
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Pain in the legs, knees, hips, and lower back
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Awkward gait patterns
Symptoms of Flat Feet
- Pain or stiffness in the arch or mid‑foot
- Discomfort around the ankle
- Tired, achy feet
- Shin splints
- Knee, hip, or lower‑back pain
- Awkward or inefficient gait
Causes of Flat Feet
- Genetic predisposition
- Excessive pronation
- Abnormal bony structure
- Ligament laxity
- Neuromuscular disease
- Trauma to leg muscles or tendons
- Inflammatory joint disease (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis)
- Previous leg or ankle surgery
- Limb length differences
- Tight Achilles tendon
Complications of Untreated Flat Feet
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Severe heel pain (plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendonitis)
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Chronic arch or mid‑foot pain
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Metatarsal stress fractures
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Early osteoarthritis in lower‑extremity joints
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Bunions, hammer toes, Morton’s neuroma
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Painful corns and calluses
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Abnormal pressure leading to chronic ulcers
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Reduced activity and diminished well‑being
Treatment for Flat Feet in Whitby
Custom Foot Orthotics
Custom semi‑rigid functional orthotics stabilize the arch, improve biomechanics, and reduce strain. They are prescribed after a full biomechanical exam.
Over‑the‑counter arch supports may help mild cases but are often insufficient.
Footwear Recommendations
- Shoes with proper arch support
- Good fit and stability
- Avoiding prolonged barefoot walking
Activity & Weight Management
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Staying active to strengthen foot and leg muscles
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Maintaining healthy body weight to reduce load
Taping
Supports strained ligaments and joints, reducing pain and improving function.
Physical Therapy Modalities
Laser therapy and other modalities can reduce inflammation and improve comfort.
Surgical Referral
Reserved for severe, symptomatic flatfoot that does not respond to conservative care.
Adult Acquired Flatfoot
Adult acquired flatfoot is a painful condition that develops later in life, often in one foot. Common patient profile includes:
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Female over 50
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Pre‑existing flat feet
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High blood pressure
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High cholesterol
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Diabetes
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Obesity
Caused by degeneration or trauma to major tendons, muscle weakness, or structural collapse. Treatment includes:
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Physical therapy
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Motion‑control footwear
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Custom orthotics
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Ankle‑foot orthoses
Book an Appointment
If you’re experiencing arch pain, fatigue, or gait changes, our clinic provides trusted flat feet treatment in Whitby with personalized, evidence‑based care.