Flat Feet Management & Therapy | Podiatry Specialist

Flat feet, or fallen arches, is a common condition where the foot's arches collapse, causing near-complete sole contact with the ground. This can lead to problems like discomfort and pain, impacting mobility, as well as altered gait patterns and potential strain on your knees, hips and back.

Effective flat foot management is therefore crucial for preventing these secondary issues and improving your overall quality of life. At UFIT Podiatry, our experienced flat foot specialist team takes a comprehensive approach, often involving tailored therapy and custom orthotics, to provide long-term relief and sustainable solutions to manage your condition effectively.

Symptoms of Flat Feet

The symptoms of flat feet can vary widely, but some common signs include:

Pain and Aching

Individuals with flat feet often experience pain or aching in the arch, heel or ankle, which can extend up the inner side of the foot. This discomfort may also radiate into the lower legs, knees, hips or lower back due to altered biomechanics.

Knee Pain

Unaddressed flat foot problems can lead to compensatory movements in the legs, placing abnormal stress on the knees. This often results in discomfort or pain in various parts of the knee, particularly after prolonged activity.

Foot Fatigue

One of the tell-tale signs of flat foot problems is significant foot fatigue, where feet feel easily tired or strained. This exhaustion typically occurs after standing, walking or engaging in activities for extended periods due to the lack of proper arch support.

Difficulty with Footwear

Finding suitable shoes that provide adequate support and accommodate the foot's altered shape can be a significant challenge for those with flat feet. Shoes may feel uncomfortable, or certain styles might exacerbate existing pain or lead to new discomfort.

Overpronation

Excessive inward rolling of the foot during walking or running, known as overpronation, is a common symptom associated with flat feet. This can lead to uneven wear patterns on shoes and contribute to various lower limb issues if not properly managed.

Back Pain

The altered alignment caused by flat feet can cascade up the kinetic chain, impacting the spine's natural curvature. This often results in lower back pain, especially after a long day of activity or prolonged periods of standing, as the body attempts to compensate for the unstable foundation.

Genetics A family history of flat feet can significantly increase an individual's predisposition to developing this condition. If close relatives have experienced flat foot problems, genetic factors often play a key role in their development, making proactive management important.

Foot and Ankle Injuries Injuries such as fractures, dislocations or torn tendons in the foot or ankle can directly compromise the structural integrity and support of the arch. This trauma can lead to the gradual collapse of the arch, contributing significantly to the acquisition of flat feet and requiring focused attention from a flat foot specialist.

Arthritis Certain forms of arthritis, particularly inflammatory conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, can cause progressive damage to the intricate joints within the foot. This joint deterioration can lead to the gradual collapse of the arch, resulting in flat foot problems that necessitate specialised management.

Obesity Excess body weight places continuous, substantial strain on the arches of the feet and their crucial supporting ligaments and tendons. Over time, this chronic added pressure can cause the arches to flatten or completely collapse, making obesity a significant contributing factor to the development and severity of flat feet.

Diabetes Diabetes can lead to various complex complications affecting foot health, including nerve damage (neuropathy) that diminishes sensation, and compromised circulation that weakens tissues. These systemic issues can alter foot structures and their biomechanics over time, potentially resulting in the development of flat feet.

Tibialis Posterior Dysfunction The tibialis posterior tendon is a primary dynamic support for the foot’s arch. Damage, inflammation or progressive dysfunction of this vital tendon can cause the arch to gradually collapse and the foot to flatten. This specific condition leads to a type of acquired flat feet where early intervention and targeted therapy are crucial for effective management.

Aging As we age, the natural wear and tear on our bodies can progressively weaken the tendons and ligaments that provide crucial support to the foot's arches. This gradual weakening can lead to the development of flat feet.

Podiatry assessment bottom of foot pointing

Step 1: Thorough Assessment

A detailed initial assessment is conducted to understand the patient’s condition, lifestyle and any contributing factors. This involves a physical examination, gait analysis and a review of their medical history.

Step 2: Customised Management Plans

Based on the assessment, a tailored management plan is developed. This may include a combination of conservative measures and physical therapy.

Step 3: Advanced Shockwave Therapies

UFIT Podiatry offers advanced therapeutic options, including Radial Shockwave Therapy and Focal Shockwave Therapy, to effectively manage various persistent lower limb conditions. These cutting-edge therapies accelerate healing and provide targeted pain relief for our patients.

Step 5: Ankle Foot Orthotics

For severe cases of flat feet or as post-surgical support, Ankle Foot Orthotics (AFOs) provide maximum external support. These specialised devices ensure full functionality and aid in comprehensive flat foot management.

Step 6: Education and Prevention

Patients are educated on proper footwear, foot care and exercises to prevent the progression of flat feet and maintain foot health. This proactive approach helps to prevent future issues and manage existing conditions effectively.

UFIT Podiatry 3D printing custom insoles

Step 4: Custom OrthoticsCustom orthotic devices are designed and fitted to provide optimal support, correct foot mechanics and reduce strain on the arches. These orthotics are created based on precise measurements and are tailored to the patient’s specific needs.

UFIT Podiatrist Consults Client while holding insoles

Step 7: Follow-Up CareRegular follow-up appointments are scheduled to monitor progress, adjust treatment plans as necessary and ensure long-term recovery and management. UFIT Podiatry emphasises continuous care to help patients achieve and maintain foot health.

Flat feet, though often manageable, can lead to significant discomfort and mobility issues if left untreated. By understanding the causes, symptoms, and available treatment options, individuals can take proactive steps toward relief and improved foot health. At UFIT Podiatry, a patient-centered approach ensures that those suffering from flat feet receive the best possible care, tailored to their unique needs. Through comprehensive assessments, advanced therapies, and personalized treatment plans, UFIT Podiatry helps patients overcome the challenges of flat feet and achieve long-lasting comfort and mobility.

Step 1: Thorough AssessmentA detailed initial assessment is conducted to understand the patient’s condition, lifestyle and any contributing factors. This involves a physical examination, gait analysis and a review of their medical history.

Step 2: Customised Management PlansBased on the assessment, a tailored management plan is developed. This may include a combination of conservative measures and physical therapy.

Step 3: Advanced Shockwave Therapies

Step 5: Ankle Foot OrthoticsFor severe cases of flat feet or as post-surgical support, Ankle Foot Orthotics (AFOs) provide maximum external support. These specialised devices ensure full functionality and aid in comprehensive flat foot management.

Step 6: Education and PreventionPatients are educated on proper footwear, foot care and exercises to prevent the progression of flat feet and maintain foot health. This proactive approach helps to prevent future issues and manage existing conditions effectively.

TOUCH

SINGAPORE'S MOST ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY

SINGAPORE'S MOST ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY We're the only clinic in Singapore to offer advanced gait analysis and in-house 3D-printed insoles with a comprehensive report.

TOUCH

ELITE LEVEL OF CARE FOR
ALL INDIVIDUALS

We offer personalized, evidence-based lower limb care for athletes, active individuals, and parents seeking specialized treatment for their children.

TOUCH

GET ACCESS TO A MULTIDISCIPLINARY TEAM OF PROFESSIONALS

We go beyond addressing your injury or pain. Through our Circle of Care, you can access our team of experts with a vast range of specialised experience and knowledge.

What to expect on your first visit

FULL BODY ASSESSMENT

We recognise the interconnectedness of musculoskeletal health, so we assess your entire body, not just your feet. We also focus on vital health indicators impacting your lower limbs, like circulation, nerve function and alignment.

ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY

We use cutting-edge diagnostic tools to get real-time insights into your soft tissue, joints and structures to provide a fast and accurate diagnosis.

DETAILED REPORT

Post-assessment, you will receive clear and comprehensive reports detailing our findings. This will allow you to make informed decisions on your treatment plan.

TREATMENT PLAN

Together with you, we formulate a comprehensive and personalised treatment plan that suit your goals and preferences.

Lewis Nurney

Lewis is a highly experienced podiatrist with over 5 years of practice in Singapore, bringing his expertise to UFIT's comprehensive Circle of Care. As Head of Podiatry at UFIT Club Street, he specialises in sports podiatry, innovative orthotics for adults and children (including 3D-printed custom insoles, Paediatric AFOs and SMOs for pediatric flat feet), and minimally invasive procedures.

A first-class honours graduate from the University of Huddersfield (UK), Lewis holds dual certifications in Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT), Diagnostic Ultrasound and Running Gait analysis. Previously with East Coast Podiatry, he now provides patient-centred care at UFIT, specialising in non-surgical management of conditions like Foot Pain, Plantar Fasciitis and Achilles Tendinopathy in both children and adults, ultimately focused on alleviating discomfort and restoring optimal foot function.

Elliot Yeldham

Elliott is a dedicated podiatrist with over 7 years of healthcare experience, gained in both the UK's National Health Service (NHS) and private practice. He holds an Honours degree in Podiatry from Cardiff Metropolitan University (Wales), and brings a wealth of expertise to Singapore.

Specialising in Musculoskeletal (MSK) podiatry, Elliott's interests include sport podiatry and the management of gait abnormalities in both adults and children. He is also recognised for his skill and patient-focused approach in minimally invasive procedures for ingrown toenails and wart removal. Committed to a patient-centred and multidisciplinary model, Elliott actively stays informed of the latest healthcare advancements through clinical research and international conferences.

Frequently Asked Questions About Flat Feet

Are flat feet hereditary?

While flat foot problems can sometimes run in families, their development is often influenced by a combination of genetic predisposition and other factors like lifestyle or injury. If you suspect your flat feet might be hereditary, consulting a flat foot specialist at our podiatry clinic can provide clarity.

Can flat feet affect my posture or walking? Yes, it can. Flat feet can significantly impact your biomechanics, potentially leading to altered gait patterns and compensatory movements that affect posture and walking efficiency. Addressing flat foot problems proactively can help restore proper alignment and reduce strain on your ankles, knees, hips and even your lower back, improving overall mobility.

Can flat feet be corrected? While anatomical "correction" of flat feet may not always be possible in every case, effective flat foot management can significantly reduce symptoms and improve function. Our podiatry specialists focus on comprehensive strategies, including custom orthotics and targeted flat feet therapy, to optimise foot mechanics and alleviate discomfort for lasting results.

Can physical therapy help with flat feet? Yes, physical therapy for flat feet is a highly effective component of a comprehensive flat foot management plan. Tailored exercises can strengthen crucial foot and ankle muscles, improve flexibility and enhance stability. This helps to support the arch and optimise your body's natural alignment.

How do custom orthotics help with flat feet? Custom orthotics are a cornerstone of effective flat foot management, uniquely designed to support and gently realign your arches, alleviating strain and redistributing pressure evenly. These personalised devices can significantly reduce discomfort and improve overall foot function, enhancing your daily activities and performance.

Can flat feet lead to other foot problems? Yes, unmanaged flat foot problems can contribute to a cascade of related issues throughout the lower body. The altered biomechanics can lead to conditions like plantar fasciitis, bunions, shin splints and even knee or hip pain, highlighting the importance of proactive management for long-term health.

Is surgery required for flat feet? Surgery for flat feet is generally considered a last resort, typically necessary only in a small percentage of severe or highly symptomatic cases. Instead, our flat foot specialists at UFIT prioritise non-invasive approaches and comprehensive therapy to help manage your condition effectively.

How long does it take to recover from flat feet therapy? The recovery time from flat feet therapy varies greatly depending on the individual, the severity of their problems and the specific management plan implemented. Consistency with exercises and orthotic use is key, with many individuals experiencing significant improvement in comfort and function within weeks to a few months.

A UFIT PROGRAM

Flat Feet Therapy

What are Flat Feet?

Symptoms of Flat Feet

Pain and Aching

Knee Pain

Foot Fatigue

Difficulty with Footwear

Overpronation

Back Pain

Common Causes of Flat Feet

Book Online and Save $20 On Your First Consultation

Our Approach to Flat Feet Therapy

What to expect on your first visit

Meet Our Podiatry Team

Meet Our Podiatry Team

Price List

Consult A Flat Foot Specialist Today

Visit Our Podiatry Clinic

Frequently Asked Questions About Flat Feet

Podiatry Blog

The Best Option for Ingrown Toenail Treatment: GP or Podiatry

Don't run until you've talked to a podiatrist

Podiatry: Myths, Facts, & Comprehensive Foot Care Solutions

How to cure plantar fasciitis in one week