Flat Feet (Pes Planus): A Podiatrist’s Perspective on Foot Health and Comfort

At Laguna Woods Podiatry Group, we frequently see patients with questions about flat feet, also known as pes planus. As a podiatrist, my goal is to help patients understand what flat feet are, why they occur, and when evaluation may be helpful to support long-term comfort and mobility.

This educational article is intended to provide general information only and does not replace an in-person medical evaluation. Individual care recommendations always depend on a full clinical assessment.

Flat feet occur when the arches of the feet appear low or absent while standing. In some individuals, the arch may be visible when sitting or on tiptoes and flatten only with weight-bearing. In others, the arch may remain low at all times.

Flat feet can affect children and adults, and not all flat feet cause symptoms. However, for some people, changes in foot structure may contribute to discomfort or altered biomechanics over time.

Common Causes of Flat Feet

Flat feet may develop for several reasons, including:

Genetics or family history

Ligament laxity or tendon weakness

Posterior tibial tendon dysfunction

Prior foot or ankle injuries

Arthritis or inflammatory conditions

Age-related changes in foot structure

Pregnancy or weight changes

Understanding the underlying cause is important, as it helps guide appropriate treatment options.

Symptoms That May Be Associated With Flat Feet

Not everyone with flat feet experiences symptoms. When symptoms do occur, patients may report:

Foot or heel discomfort

Arch or ankle fatigue

Pain along the inside of the ankle

Knee, hip, or lower back discomfort

Difficulty standing or walking for long periods

Shoes wearing unevenly

If symptoms interfere with daily activities or worsen over time, a podiatric evaluation may be beneficial.

When Should You See a Podiatrist for Flat Feet?

You may want to seek evaluation if you notice:

Persistent foot or ankle pain

Progressive flattening of one or both feet

Changes in walking pattern or balance

Symptoms limiting work, exercise, or daily activities

Early assessment can help identify contributing factors and support foot health before symptoms progress.

Evaluation and Treatment Options

As a Board-Certified Podiatrist, Dr. Neda Arjomandi, DPM performs a comprehensive evaluation that may include gait analysis, physical examination, and imaging when appropriate.

Treatment options for flat feet are individualized and may include:

Supportive footwear recommendations

Custom orthotics to support foot alignment

Stretching and strengthening exercises

Activity modification

Bracing when indicated

Advanced treatment options in select cases, based on clinical findings

The goal of care is to support comfort, alignment, and function, not to promise or guarantee outcomes.

Footwear Tips for Flat Feet

Choosing appropriate footwear may help improve day-to-day comfort:

Look for shoes with firm arch support

Choose stable heels and supportive midsoles

Avoid worn-out shoes that no longer provide structure

Consider activity-specific footwear for walking or exercise

A podiatrist can help guide footwear and orthotic decisions based on your individual needs.

Trusted Flat Feet Care in Orange County

At Laguna Woods Podiatry Group, we focus on patient education, thoughtful evaluation, and evidence-based care. Flat feet are common, and many people do very well with proper guidance and support.

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

Schedule a Podiatric Evaluation

To schedule an evaluation with Dr. Neda Arjomandi, DPM, please contact Laguna Woods Podiatry Group at (949) 581-2520. We proudly serve patients from Laguna Hills, Laguna Woods, Mission Viejo, Lake Forest, Aliso Viejo, Irvine, Laguna Niguel, Rancho Santa Margarita, Foothill Ranch, Dana Point, San Juan Capistrano, Newport Beach, Costa Mesa, and Tustin.