Flat Feet in Adults and Children: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

Flat feet, also known as fallen arches, occur when the arches of the feet collapse or never properly develop. While some people experience no discomfort, others may struggle with pain, fatigue, or alignment issues that affect the ankles, knees, hips, and even the back.

At Laguna Woods Podiatry Group in Laguna Hills, Dr. Neda Arjomandi, board-certified podiatrist, helps patients of all ages manage flat feet and improve comfort, mobility, and long-term foot health.

Flat Feet in Children

Many children are born with flat feet because the arches develop gradually throughout childhood. In most cases, flat feet in children are painless and correct themselves naturally as the muscles and bones mature.

However, a podiatry evaluation is recommended if:

• Your child complains of foot or leg pain

• They have difficulty keeping up in sports or play

• Their feet appear stiff or rigid

• The flat feet persist into adolescence

Early intervention may include supportive shoes, custom orthotics, and stretching exercises that encourage healthy development.

Flat Feet in Adults

For adults, flat feet can develop over time or be present since childhood. Some adults develop posterior tibial tendon dysfunction (PTTD), where the tendon supporting the arch becomes weak or damaged. This often leads to worsening flat feet, ankle pain, and difficulty walking long distances.

Common causes in adults include:

• Genetics (inherited foot shape)

• Obesity or weight gain

• Pregnancy

• Sports or repetitive stress

• Arthritis

• Injury to the foot or ankle

Symptoms of Flat Feet

While not everyone with flat feet has symptoms, some people may experience:

• Pain or fatigue in the arches or heels

• Swelling along the inside of the ankle

• Difficulty standing on tiptoe

• Uneven shoe wear

• Knee, hip, or back pain caused by misalignment

Treatment Options

Dr. Arjomandi tailors flat foot care depending on age, lifestyle, and severity. Treatment options may include:

Conservative Care

• Custom Orthotics: Provide arch support and improve alignment.

• Supportive Footwear: Wide, stable shoes with firm midsoles.

• Stretching & Strengthening: Exercises for the Achilles tendon and posterior tibial tendon.

• Weight Management: Reduces pressure on the arches.

• Activity Modification: Limiting high-impact exercise if painful.

Advanced Care

• Bracing: May be used for more severe adult flat foot cases.

• Surgery: Rare, but considered if conservative methods fail and pain significantly affects daily life.

Living Well with Flat Feet

For many patients, flat feet don’t require aggressive treatment. With proper support, footwear, and routine podiatry care, both children and adults can remain active and pain-free. Regular checkups are especially important if you notice changes in walking, balance, or chronic foot pain.

Take the Next Step

Whether you are concerned about your child’s arch development or dealing with adult flat foot pain, expert podiatry care can make a lasting difference.

📍 Call Laguna Woods Podiatry Group at 949-581-2520 to schedule your flat foot evaluation with Dr. Neda Arjomandi.

We proudly serve patients from Laguna Hills, Laguna Woods, Mission Viejo, Lake Forest, Aliso Viejo, Irvine, Laguna Niguel, Laguna Beach, Rancho Santa Margarita, Foothill Ranch, Ladera Ranch, Dana Point, San Juan Capistrano, Newport Beach, Tustin, Costa Mesa, and Santa Ana.