Can Flexible Flat Feet Be Corrected? Understanding Your Options

Flat Feet, Flexible Problems

If you've ever noticed your arches flatten when you stand but reappear when you sit or rise onto your toes, you likely have something called flexible flat feet.

And if you’re wondering whether this is something you’re stuck with, or if it can be corrected, you’re not alone!

Let’s walk through what flexible flat feet really are, why they matter, and most importantly—what you can do about them.

What Are Flexible Flat Feet?

Flexible flat feet mean that the arch of your foot collapses when bearing weight, but returns when you lift your foot off the ground.

This is different from "rigid flat feet," where the arch is flat all the time, regardless of movement or weight.

Key signs of flexible flat feet:

• 🦶 Arches visible when sitting, flat when standing
  

• 🚶 Tired, aching feet after walking or standing
  

• 👟 Shoes wear unevenly, often on the inside edges
  

It’s very common—up to 30% of people have some degree of flat foot posture!

What Causes Flexible Flat Feet?

Flat feet can be linked to genetics (you can thank your parents), but other causes include:

• Ligament laxity: Looser ligaments allow the arch to collapse.
  

• Weak supporting muscles: Especially in the foot and ankle.
  

• Obesity: Extra weight increases the load on foot structures.
  

• Overuse or injury: Stress on the feet without proper support.
  

Do Flexible Flat Feet Always Need Treatment?

The good news? Not necessarily.

If you’re not in pain and your movement isn’t restricted, treatment might not be needed. However, if you experience any of the following, it’s worth seeking professional advice:

• Foot, ankle, or knee pain
  

• Balance issues
  

• Fatigue or soreness after activity
  

Ignoring symptoms can lead to other problems like shin splints, plantar fasciitis, or Achilles tendinopathy.

Can Flexible Flat Feet Be Corrected?

While you can’t permanently "change" your foot structure, you can absolutely improve function, reduce discomfort, and prevent future issues.

Here’s how:

✅ Strengthening Exercises

Specific exercises target the muscles supporting your arch:

• Towel scrunches: Strengthen intrinsic foot muscles.
  

• Calf raises: Boost ankle and calf strength.
  

• Arch lifts: Train the arch to engage actively.
  

✅ Custom Orthotics

Custom-made orthotic insoles help to:

• Support the natural arch structure
  

• Distribute pressure evenly
  

• Improve alignment and comfort
  

✅ Footwear Choices

Look for:

• Structured, supportive shoes
  

• Firm heel counters for stability
  

• Wide toe boxes for natural foot spread
  
  

✅ Professional Assessment

A gait analysis and biomechanical assessment can pinpoint exactly where improvements can be made.

📞 Pro Tip: Book a biomechanical assessment at We Fix Feet for tailored advice! Call 0115 9328832 or visit www.wefixfeet.co.uk

Is Surgery Ever Needed?

Surgery for flexible flat feet is extremely rare and typically only considered if pain is severe and conservative treatments fail.

Most people manage flexible flat feet very successfully with non-invasive approaches.

Final Thoughts: Step Into Support

Flexible flat feet don’t have to slow you down.

With the right exercises, footwear, and professional support, you can walk, run, and live comfortably without worrying about foot pain.

✅ Understand your feet ✅ Strengthen your arches ✅ Support your steps

🚨 Don’t let flat feet hold you back—seek professional advice and enjoy pain-free movement!