A ‘flat foot’ is as the name suggests a foot with a reduced arch that appears ‘flat’. A foot may be so flat the complete sole of the foot may touch the ground.

Why do people have flat feet?

There are a number of reasons why people have flat feet;

Hyper mobile joints – the normal ligaments and joints that support the arch of the foot may move more than they should – this means when someone stands the arch can no longer support itself and the foot collapses
Tibialis posterior tendon dysfunction – The tibialis posterior muscle and tendon supports the arch of the foot
Children – It is normal for children to have a flat foot as they are developing. This is due to the increased mobility in the joints and the fact that the bones in the foot are not fully formed
Overweight – Increased weight may overload the normal structures that support the arch resulting in its collapse
Genetics – Sometimes having flat feet can run in the family. Generally this is due to the genetic link between ligament laxity running in families