Are Flat Feet a Problem? Signs It’s Time to See a Podiatrist

Many adults are surprised when they’re told they have flat feet.
After all, if you’ve walked this way your whole life, how serious can it be?

The truth is: flat feet aren’t always a problem—but when symptoms appear, they should never be ignored. What was once a harmless foot structure can become a medical issue that affects your ankles, knees, hips, and even your lower back.

Understanding when flat feet cross the line from “normal” to “problematic” is key to preventing long-term pain and damage.

What Are Flat Feet?

Flat feet, also called fallen arches, occur when the arches of the feet collapse or never fully develop. This causes the entire sole of the foot to make contact with the ground when standing.

Some people are born with flat feet, while others develop them later in life due to:

• Aging and ligament weakening

• Injury or trauma

• Tendon dysfunction (especially the posterior tibial tendon)

• Arthritis

• Obesity or prolonged stress on the feet

Not all flat feet are painful—but symptoms are a sign that something deeper is happening.

When Flat Feet Become a Medical Problem

Flat feet become a medical issue when they begin to interfere with normal foot function or cause pain. Common warning signs include:

1. Foot and Ankle Pain

Pain often develops along the inside of the foot or ankle, especially near the arch. This can worsen with prolonged standing, walking, or exercise.

2. Heel Pain and Plantar Fasciitis

Collapsed arches place excessive strain on the plantar fascia, increasing the risk of:

• Heel pain

• Morning stiffness

• Chronic plantar fasciitis

3. Ankle Instability and Tendon Damage

Adult-acquired flat feet are frequently linked to posterior tibial tendon dysfunction (PTTD). As this tendon weakens, the arch collapses further, leading to:

• Ankle instability

• Swelling

• Progressive deformity

Without treatment, this condition can worsen significantly over time.

4. Knee, Hip, and Back Pain

Flat feet alter how your body absorbs shock and distributes weight. This misalignment can cause:

• Knee pain

• Hip strain

• Lower back discomfort

Many patients don’t realize their joint pain actually starts at the feet.

5. Fatigue and Difficulty Staying Active

Even without sharp pain, flat feet can cause muscle fatigue, making it harder to:

• Walk long distances

• Stand for extended periods

• Exercise comfortably

This often leads to reduced activity levels and decreased quality of life.

Why Flat Feet Can Worsen Over Time

Flat feet are often progressive, especially when caused by tendon dysfunction or structural instability. Without proper support:

• The arch may continue collapsing

• Pain may increase

• Joint damage and arthritis can develop

Early treatment helps slow or stop this progression.

How Flat Feet Are Treated

Treatment depends on the severity of symptoms and the underlying cause. Options may include:

• Custom orthotics to support the arch

• Supportive footwear recommendations

• Bracing for tendon support

• Physical therapy

• Anti-inflammatory care

• Surgical correction in advanced cases

The goal is always to restore function, reduce pain, and protect the joints above the feet.

When Should You See a Podiatrist?

You should schedule an evaluation if you notice:

• New or worsening foot or ankle pain

• Swelling along the inside of the ankle

• Increasing fatigue when walking

• Pain spreading to knees, hips, or back

• A visible change in foot shape

Flat feet may look harmless—but symptoms mean your feet are asking for help.

The Bottom Line

Flat feet in adults are not automatically a problem—but when pain, instability, or fatigue appear, they become a medical condition that deserves attention. Ignoring symptoms can lead to chronic pain and long-term joint issues.

Early podiatric care can make all the difference in keeping you active, comfortable, and mobile for years to come. Contact our office today with Dr. Gireesh Reddy or Dr. Sirisha Pokala by calling (469) 573-3427 or by booking an appointment online.