Flat Feet

This type of foot structure is diagnosed when the entire sole of your foot touches the ground. Some people never develop arches, while others may experience fallen arches due to a previous injury or conditions related to aging. Arthritis, adult-acquired flat feet, and a muscle or tendon injury can create the onset of this condition later in life. Nerve problems like cerebral palsy, spina bifida, and muscular dystrophy are additional causes.

If you have obesity, diabetes, or high blood pressure, you’re at risk for fallen arches. Your choice of shoes, including high heels, and prolonged walking and standing can all create the characteristics, too.

The Wet Test: Determining your Structure

You can easily figure out if you have flat arches. All you need is a wet foot and a surface that will visibly show the imprint, such as a concrete walkway or a brown paper grocery bag. Step onto the surface and then step away, if the imprint shows your entire foot, it’s likely that you have this structure.

Remember that children develop arches as they grow. Some kids’ feet may not fully develop until they’re 10 years old. However, in some cases, they may have a flat and stiff arch caused by genetics. Also note that flat feet aren’t inherently bad. In most cases, they don’t cause problems. The only time when you need to seek treatment is when your feet are painful.