Flat feet or pes planus, is a condition that affects individuals of all age groups. If you have flat feet, an arch is not present when you stand. Most individuals with flat feet will never experience any pain or problems. For others, flat feet can cause pain in the feet, ankles and lower legs. One means of correcting flat feet is through a series of foot exercises. These exercises can help to strengthen the arch of your foot. Always consult a doctor before beginning a correction exercise program for flat feet.
Towel Grab
The towel grab can help to decrease pain and increase your arch. Stand or sit with hand towel placed under one of your feet. Curl your toes and use the arch of your foot to scrunch the towel together. You can also use your foot to straighten the towel back out. Complete one set of 10 repetitions for each of your feet.
Single Leg Balance
This exercise focuses on increasing the arch of your foot. Stand on one foot - if necessary stand near a countertop or wall so that you can use it as support. While you stand on one leg, concentrate on arching the foot you are standing on. Increase your arch and hold this position for a few seconds. Decrease your arch and repeat. Complete one set of 10 repetitions for each foot.
Calf Stretch
This exercise can help strengthen and alleviate pain felt in your lower leg as a result of flat feet. Stand with your hands flat against a wall. Place one foot in front with your knee slightly bent and your foot flat on the ground. Your other foot should be slightly backwards, with your heel on the ground and your leg straight. Slowly lean forward. When you feel a stretch in your calf muscle, stop and hold this position for a count of 30 seconds. Repeat one set of 5 repetitions for each leg. You can rest for a few seconds in between repetitions.
Towel Stretch
This exercise helps to strengthen your arches. Sit on the floor with your legs fully extended in front of your. Use a larger towel rolled length wise and loop it around the balls of your feet. You should take the ends of the towels and hold one in each hand. Slowly pull the ends of the towel toward your body. This will bring your feet towards your body as well. When you feel a stretch in your feet, hold this position for a few seconds. Complete one set of 10 repetitions. To make this exercise more challenging, you can use a resistance band in place of a towel.
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