What can happen if flat feet go untreated?
Asked 2 years ago
Hey, I have had fallen arches for a few months now and I am curious about the potential consequences if I don't do anything to manage them. Currently, I do not have any pain but I have heard that it can cause pain, discomfort, and difficulty with standing or walking for long periods of time. I want to know if there are other health issues that could arise if I don't seek treatment and if it could potentially impact other parts of my body, such as my knees or hips. Any advice would help!
Michael Patrick
Tuesday, March 14, 2023
Yes, without proper treatment and support the loss of arch height could progressively get worse over time and with physically activity, leading to the onset of pain or discomfort in your feet. The arch height determines the alignment of the ankle joint, and subsequently the knee and hip joints determined by the rotation of the bones in the lower legs. Misalignment and rotation of these joints can lead to degradation of the joint’s cartilage and arthritis will develop as a result. It may not be immediate but in the future the pain or discomfort will arise. Seeking treatment, usually conservatively, can prevent the misalignment of the ankle joint by supporting the arches with supportive shoes or custom flat feet orthotics, thus preventing worsening of your symptoms in the future.
Please follow our Community Guidelines
Related Articles

What Causes Middle Foot Pain and How to Get Rid of It
Upstep Staff
January 26, 2024

Can Orthotic Insoles Help Treat Achilles Tendonitis?
Dr. Pooja Gajare
March 24, 2023

Pros & Cons of HyProCure—Can You Fix Your Foot Deformity?
Babafemi Adebajo
February 1, 2024
Related Posts
Babafemi Adebajo
Different Types of Flat Feet and Their Symptoms
Staff Writer
How to Tell if You Need Orthotics
Janik Sundstrom
Best Exercises for Treating Flat Feet
Babafemi Adebajo
Best Tennis Ball Exercises for Plantar Fasciitis
Janik Sundstrom
Ankle Pain Symptom Checker: Why Your Ankle Hurts
Janik Sundstrom
How to Rebuild Arches in Flat Feet
Janik Sundstrom
5 Effective Home Remedies for Burning Feet Syndrome
Can't find what you're looking for?