Struggling With Flat Feet (Pes Planus)?
What’s Really Causing It — and How We Treat It
If your feet feel tired, achy, or painful after standing or walking, or you’ve noticed your arches have flattened over time, you’re not alone.
Flat feet (also known as pes planus or fallen arches) are a common condition — and while some people have no symptoms, others experience ongoing pain and movement issues without the right support.
At We Fix Feet, we specialise in identifying why your arches have collapsed — whether it’s genetics, tendon dysfunction, injury, or biomechanics — and creating a personalised treatment plan to restore comfort, stability, and movement.
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FLAT FEET - 5 Practical Steps to Improve Comfort, Support Walking, and Reduce Ongoing Pain
What Are Flat Feet (Pes Planus)?
Flat feet occur when the arches of the foot collapse, causing the sole to make complete or near-complete contact with the ground.
This condition may be present from childhood or develop later in life due to tendon problems, injury, or increased stress on the feet.
Flat feet can affect foot alignment and place extra strain on the ankles, knees, hips, and lower back if left unmanaged.
How We Treat Flat Feet
At We Fix Feet, we offer evidence-based treatments designed to support the arch, improve alignment, and reduce pain:
- Custom Orthotics – Specialised insoles to support arches and correct foot mechanics
- Physical Therapy – Exercises to strengthen foot and ankle muscles
- Footwear Advice – Guidance on supportive shoes suited to your foot type
- Activity & Load Management – Reducing strain while maintaining movement
- Surgical Referral (when required) – Considered only in rare cases when conservative care fails
Every treatment plan is tailored to your symptoms, lifestyle, and long-term foot health.
Causes & Risk Factors
Flat feet may develop due to:
● Congenital factors – Genetic predisposition from birth
● Posterior Tibial Tendon Dysfunction (PTTD) – A common cause of adult-acquired flat feet
● Injury or illness – Trauma, arthritis, or neuromuscular conditions
● Obesity – Increased body weight placing excess stress on the arches
Identifying the cause is essential to preventing progression.
BOOK YOUR CONSULTATION TODAY
If flat feet are causing pain, fatigue, or affecting how you move, book a professional assessment at We Fix Feet today.
We’ll explain what’s happening, outline your treatment options clearly, and help you stay active and comfortable long term.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Flat Feet
What are flat feet (pes planus)?
Flat feet, also known as pes planus or fallen arches, occur when the arches of the foot collapse, causing the sole to make full or near-full contact with the ground. This can be present from birth or develop gradually over time.
What are the symptoms of flat feet?
Some people experience no symptoms, while others may notice foot pain (especially in the heel or arch), swelling along the inside of the ankle, fatigue when standing or walking, and pain in the knees, hips, or lower back due to altered biomechanics.
What causes flat feet?
Flat feet can be caused by genetic factors, posterior tibial tendon dysfunction (PTTD), injury or trauma, arthritis, neuromuscular conditions, or increased stress on the arches due to excess body weight.
Do flat feet always need treatment?
Not always. If flat feet are pain-free and not affecting movement, treatment may not be required. However, painful or progressive flat feet should be assessed to prevent worsening symptoms and secondary joint problems.
How are flat feet treated?
Treatment options may include:
- Custom orthotics to support the arches and improve alignment
- Strengthening and mobility exercises for the foot and ankle
- Footwear advice to ensure proper support and stability
- Activity modification where needed
- Surgical intervention in rare cases where conservative care is unsuccessful
How long does it take to see improvement with flat feet treatment?
Many people notice symptom relief within weeks of wearing custom orthotics and following a tailored treatment plan. Long-term improvement depends on consistency, activity levels, and underlying causes.
Can flat feet cause pain in other areas of the body?
Yes. Flat feet can affect alignment throughout the lower limb, contributing to knee, hip, and lower back pain. Correcting foot mechanics often helps reduce these secondary symptoms.
How do orthotics help with flat feet?
Custom orthotics provide targeted arch support, improve foot stability, reduce strain on tendons and joints, and help restore efficient movement patterns — relieving pain and preventing further collapse.
When should I see a specialist for flat feet?
You should seek professional advice if you experience persistent foot pain, ankle swelling, frequent fatigue, or pain in the knees, hips, or back that may be linked to your foot posture.
How can We Fix Feet help with flat feet?
At We Fix Feet, our HCPC-registered podiatrists carry out detailed biomechanical assessments and create personalised treatment plans to support your arches, relieve pain, and help you move comfortably and confidently.
Still Feeling A Little Confused About Your Foot Condition And Don't Know What To Do?
- Fill in the form to request a Call From Our Team
- One of our team will call you for FREE and answer any questions or concerns you may have about your uncomfortable foot pain.
Still Confused About How We Can Help Solve Your Flat Feet ? Take Us Up On One Of Our FREE Options
Our Clinic Locations
We have two convenient locations in Beeston and Ilkeston, making expert podiatry and sports rehabilitation accessible across Nottinghamshire and Derbyshire.
Ilkeston Clinic
- Open: Mon-Fri 09:00AM - 05:00PM / Sat 09:00AM - 01:00PM
- 94 Bath Street, Ilkeston, Derbyshire DE7 8FE
- +44 115 932 8832
- enquiries@wefixfeet.co.uk
Beeston Clinic
- Open: Mon-Fri 09:00AM - 05:00PM / Sat 09:00AM - 01:00PM
- 36a The Square, Beeston, Nottinghamshire NG9 2JJ.
- +44 115 922 3377.
- enquiries@wefixfeet.co.uk
Testimonials
Before You Book Your Appointment, Here’s Just A Handful Of Our Patients Success Stories To Put Your Mind At Ease
I had an ingrown toenail which I had left way too long and had become infected. I finally plucked up the courage to visit We Fix Feet in Ilkeston. My only regret is not visiting sooner! Ronnie was able to remove the portion of ingrown toenail at my first appointment, and within a day or two, my nail was perfect. After hiding my feet for many years I finally have a healthy set of toenails and have treated myself to my first ever pair of open toe sandals! All the staff here are wonderful, professional and very reassuring for which I am very grateful. Thank you
I had an ingrown toenail which I had left way too long and had become infected. I finally plucked up the courage to visit We Fix Feet in Ilkeston. My only regret is not visiting sooner! Ronnie was able to remove the portion of ingrown toenail at my first appointment, and within a day or two, my nail was perfect. After hiding my feet for many years I finally have a healthy set of toenails and have treated myself to my first ever pair of open toe sandals! All the staff here are wonderful, professional and very reassuring for which I am very grateful. Thank you
