1. Caused by Heredity and Lifestyle
Flat feet or "fallen arches" is a heredity trait in some people. Certain lifestyle changes can help people prone to flat feet avoid the condition. When children have flat feet, unnecessary orthopedic treatments can actually make the condition worse. Obesity also plays a role in flat feet in children, as does wearing rigid shoes at an early age. Children's feet tend to develop better and more normally when they don't wear shoes or wear light shoes. Studies show that rigid shoes actually keep the arches from developing normally.
2. Flat Foot Lifestyle
Fallen arches from accident or injury in adulthood are not preventable. However, if fallen arches come from obesity in adulthood, certain lifestyle changes can help improve the condition. Obesity puts too much stress on the arches and eventually makes them flat. Certain activities and poorly fitting shoes in adults also cause fallen arches, so some simple attention to these kinds of details really helps improve the condition.
3. Pain In the Foot
Foot pain comes from many different sources. If you take a good look at your foot and don't see your arch anymore, it's likely your pain is from fallen arches. This is the most obvious symptom of the condition. Fallen arches also cause swelling in the feet and lower legs. If you see uneven wear in your shoes this may also mean your arches aren't where they used to be.
4. Flat Out Relief
In order to get relief from fallen arches you need to see a podiatrist. A podiatrist is a foot specialist who will not only examine your feet, but will also do x-rays for an accurate diagnosis. Many people with fallen arches experience no pain and don't require special treatment. Painful fallen arches get relief from shoe inserts, physical therapy, weight loss and rest. Some patients see improvement of symptoms with better fitting shoes.
5. Flat Foot Fallout
Sometimes fallen arches cause other complications. Bunions and calluses often develop when arches fall. This is largely because shoes don't fit properly. Some people notice they can't run or walk regularly anymore with fallen arches. Plantar fasciitis, or pain in the bottom of the foot, is often associated with flat feet. Because flat feet cause the spine to be out of alignment, pain in the hips, legs and back isn't uncommon. Severe cases of fallen arches sometimes result in stress fractures.
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