What Are Flat Feet?

Flat feet, or pes planus, occur when the arches of the feet collapse, causing the entire sole to make contact with the ground. This condition can be present at birth or develop over time due to aging, injury, obesity, or prolonged stress on the feet.

People with flat feet often experience discomfort or fatigue in the feet, ankles, knees, or lower back due to poor alignment and uneven weight distribution. Without proper support, flat feet can lead to further complications such as plantar fasciitis, shin splints, or posterior tibial tendon dysfunction.