Flat Feet & Pronation
Understanding when flat feet need treatment and when they are simply part of normal development. Proper assessment is the first step.
A flat foot is one where the arch is minimal or has collapsed, allowing the middle of the foot to touch or nearly touch the ground. Pronation, the inward rotation of the heel and midfoot, often accompanies flat feet and can increase stress on the structures of the lower limb.
Not all flat feet cause problems. Many people function well without a visible arch. However, when flat feet contribute to pain, fatigue or injury, a proper assessment can identify the cause and guide treatment that actually helps.
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Flat Feet in Children
Flat feet are normal in young children. In the early years, the bones of the foot are still developing and the arch has not yet formed. Understanding what is normal at each age helps avoid unnecessary worry and unnecessary treatment.
Normal Development
Most children are born with flat feet. Up to about age 6, the arch is still forming as the muscles, tendons and ligaments of the foot strengthen and mature. During this time, flat feet are expected and rarely need intervention.
When to Get Checked
If your child is over 6 and the arch has not started forming, or if they complain of foot, leg or knee pain, it is worth having their feet assessed. Other signs to watch for include frequent tripping, reluctance to walk or run, and uneven shoe wear.
Treatment for Children
When treatment is needed, it may include strengthening exercises, supportive footwear recommendations, or orthotics. The goal is to support healthy development and prevent pain, not to force an arch where one may not be needed.
Flat Feet in Adults
Flat feet in adults can be a lifelong foot type or something that develops over time due to wear, weight gain, injury or tendon dysfunction. With an average of 10,000 steps per day, even a small biomechanical issue can add up to millions of repetitions and significant cumulative load.
Why Choose MSP?
We combine clinical expertise with a patient-centered approach to get you back on your feet.
Book Your AppointmentSports-Focused
Decades of combined experience treating foot, ankle, and movement concerns.
Evidence-Based Plan
Every plan is guided by proven research and tailored to your lifestyle.
Preventive Approach
We focus on identifying risks early to keep you moving comfortably.
Convenient Clinic Locations
Easily accessible clinics in Brighton, Richmond, and South Melbourne.
Collaborative Care
We work with your GP, physio, or coach for consistent recovery support.
Easy HICAPS Claims
Simple, instant health-fund claiming at every appointment.
What Flat Feet Can Lead To
When flat feet cause dysfunction, the effects can extend well beyond the foot itself. The lower limb works as a connected chain, and poor foot mechanics can create problems further up.
Assessment and Treatment
We assess flat feet by looking at the whole picture: your foot structure, how it moves under load, your activity level, and whether it is actually causing any problems. Treatment is only recommended when it is needed.
Biomechanical Assessment
We examine your foot posture, joint mobility, muscle strength, and walking or running pattern. This tells us whether your flat feet are flexible or rigid, symptomatic or asymptomatic, and what factors are contributing to any issues.
Orthotics
Custom orthotics can provide arch support and control excessive pronation. We prescribe orthotics when they are needed to reduce symptoms or protect structures that are under strain. Not everyone with flat feet needs orthotics.
Strengthening Programs
Targeted exercises for the foot intrinsic muscles, calves and hip stabilisers can improve foot function and reduce reliance on external support. We prescribe exercises based on your specific weaknesses.
Footwear Guidance
The right shoes make a real difference for flat feet. We provide specific footwear recommendations based on your foot type, activity and the shoes you need to wear for work or sport.
Frequently Asked Questions
Our Clinics
Three convenient locations across Melbourne. Choose the clinic closest to you.
Call: 1300 332 201
