Definition

A flat foot occurs when the normal arch is lost. It is often associated with the lower part of the legs being angled outwards.

Twenty percent of adults have flat feet, and nearly all babies are born without the normal adult arch. Most flat feet are “flexible,” cause no problems, and do not require treatment. Some of them are “rigid,” produce symptoms, and are best treated. Rigid flat feet that need treatment can be identified by symptoms and by examination of the foot.

Normal Foot Arch

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