Flat Feet

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What are Flat Feet

If you look at your feet, the majority of us will notice that we have a raised gap between the ball of our foot from the big toe joint to the heel of the foot. This is called the ‘arch’ of the foot. In a few people this arch is very low or even missing altogether, the foot is flat to the floor from your toe to your heel, this condition is called Flat Feet. Flat Feet become painful as you may roll your feet inwards when you walk.

This action can twist the inner side of your foot which, in turn causes the tendons in the arch of your feet to become strained. This can lead to Arch Pain and a condition known as Plantar Faciitis. Hormonal changes in Pregnancy can also cause the tendons in the foot arch to slacken and result in Flat Feet. Flat Feet can also lead to the development of other conditions such as Mortons Neuroma due to extra pressure on your Metatarsal if your feet roll inwards when walking.

What to look for in a shoe if you have Flat Feet

If you are experiencing Arch Pain as a result of Flat Feet then it is best to avoid wearing high heel shoes for any significant length of time. You may wear an orthotic insert or an arch support that you have bought 'off the shelf', or has been tailored by a podiatrist to help stop your foot rolling inwards. You will need to account for this when looking for a healthy and comfortable pair of shoes.

The check list below has been developed to help you find a pair of shoes that you are happy with and are also healthy for your feet. Depending on the style of shoe you want, you may focus on all or most of them.

• Know your shoe size, sounds like common sense but when was the last time you had yours measured?
• Make sure that the shoes you are buying will be wide enough for your feet, If you generally have problems finding shoes that are wide enough then it may be worth getting them measured in person at a reputable shoe shop.
• If appropriate, look for a shoe with a natural arch support
• Whether you are working on your feet all day, hiking or taking part in sport, make sure your footwear is appropriate to that activity
• Think about the material that your shoe is made of, avoid synthetic and hard materials and opt for a natural soft leather or alternative that will allow your feet to breath naturally
• For the ladies, choose a low and firm heeled shoe