Shoes with a slightly raised heel take pressure off your mid-sole and relieve foot pain. Look for shoes that come up high enough in the back to keep your heel in contact with the sole of the shoe at all times. You want shoes that enclose your heel so that the sole of the shoe and your foot move together.

These are too loose and don’t provide the kind of supportive soles you need for flat feet. Heel Supportįlip flops or sandals that don’t wrap around your heel are a no-no for flat feet. This can help align your foot correctly so you don’t twist your ankles, knees, or hips as you move. A raised arch support can take pressure off the middle of your foot. Look for shoes that have extra support in the middle of the sole. It should move with your foot and provide support while you walk or stand. The sole of the shoe should be flexible but not floppy. Look for a shoe with a firm but cushioned insole to support the surface of your foot. Most experts agree that wearing shoes with a supportive sole is best for flat feet. Other risk factors for developing flat feet include:

General wear and tear on bones and joints can lead to flat feet in adulthood. Other people find that their feet grow flatter over time. Children have flatter feet than adults and may outgrow flat feet. Some people never develop a distinct arch in their feet. Causes of Flat Feetįlat feet can be something you have your whole life. Picking the right shoes can help prevent problems from flat feet. If the shape of your feet causes pain in your feet, knees, hips, or back, you may need treatment. Their feet can lead to stress on other body parts. Other people find that flat feet affect how they stand and move. Many people don’t have problems due to their flat feet. Instead, the entire sole touches the ground when you stand.‌ Having flat feet means that the sole of your foot doesn’t arch. The sole of the foot curves up behind the toes and curves back down into the bottom of the heel. Flat feet are a common and usually painless foot condition.

Arch support shoes