Our feet are complex structures with more than a hundred tendons, muscles and ligaments, and when these come under pressure, such as when the arches of the feet collapse, it can cause extreme pain and even limit mobility. Flat feet can develop at any age, and can be a consequence of weight gain, including pregnancy.
Some people are born with flat feet and this does not normally cause problems, although your feet may need more support as you age. However, those who develop flat feet later in life are likely to experience more difficulties as a result of the pressure placed on certain areas of the feet when the arches are not correctly aligned. Let’s take a look at the best shoes for fallen arches, which can alleviate pain and enable you to stay comfortable and active throughout your life.
What are Fallen Arches?
Fallen arches occur when the ligaments that support the arch of the foot no longer perform this role. This is often referred to as collapsed arches, or flat feet, and can lead to pain and changes in gait. Sometimes, the arch may return temporarily when you sit or lie down, which is known as flexible flatfoot, but some people with flat feet find that the feet remain flat at all times, and this is known as rigid flatfoot.
Flat feet or fallen arches can lead to:
- Overpronation. Overpronation is the term used when the feet roll inwards, which can place the tendons under increased strain.
- Stress on the feet. When the structure of the foot is misaligned, such as with flat feet, this can cause stress to the joints, ligaments and soft tissues of the feet.
- Foot pain. Dropped arches are associated with pain in the arch, and can also lead to pain in the heel, in the ankles and shins, and even in the hips and back.
- Muscle fatigue. When the arches drop, the muscles of the feet have to work harder to maintain support and mobility, and this can lead to muscle fatigue.
All of these problems can be remedied with the correct shoes and the addition of custom-made orthotics, but it is important to work with a foot specialist to find the best options for your feet.
The best shoes for flat feet
There are many factors that can affect the suitability of the shoes you wear, and a foot assessment or a gait analysis can help you to identify the best options. Our specialist team can book you in for a free foot assessment and work with you to find shoes you’ll love – your feet will feel the difference straight away!
We recommend looking for:
- Arch reinforcement. If your natural arches have collapsed, you will need a shoe that is firm enough to do the job of supporting them, and this may include using custom-made orthotics to build up the arch. Look out for shoes in which the midsole includes zones of firmer foam to prevent the feet from collapsing inwards. Many sports brands, such as Brooks, have stability shoes in their ranges that are designed with this in mind.
- Good cushioning. If the arches of the feet have fallen, you will need to find the right balance of cushioning in your shoes, providing shock absorption and a firm structure. A soft midsole will not usually give you the support you need, but some designs, often known as ‘maximalist’ or ‘cushion-stability’, aim to provide the right combination.
- A firm heel counter. The heel of the foot must be stabilised to prevent rotation or wobbling, which can cause further issues with pronation and alignment. A firm, deep heel cup can help to hold the heel in place, keeping it centred and maintaining correct alignment.
- Custom-made orthotics. Custom-made orthotics can completely revolutionise the way your shoes feel on your feet, and these can be worn inside your shoes to provide a personalised solution to the problem of flat feet. Custom-made orthotics are created to the shape of your feet, so they are unique to you, and they can fulfil the role of the natural foot arch.
- Well fitted shoes. Shoes that fit your feet well are essential to protect against damage to the structure of the foot, including fallen arches. Shoes that are too narrow or too short can put pressure on the feet and alter the biomechanics of your body, so it is vital to seek out a professional fitter to help you find footwear that fits your feet correctly. Shoes that are slightly broader in the sole can be helpful when you have flat feet, and these can be worn with custom-made orthotics to create the perfect fit.
There are many variations within shoe designs, including rocker soles that can be beneficial for some people with flat feet. However, it is very important to match your foot profile with the type of shoes you are wearing so that you find the very best options for you and your lifestyle.
Custom-made Orthotics for Flat Feet
Custom-made orthotics offer a precise and personalised way to treat flat feet and we can make these for you in store (fitting takes place in store and orthotics take 1-2 weeks to be made). These small, effective devices will redistribute the weight of your body more evenly throughout your feet and help to control your motion to prevent additional stress and strain on the muscles and ligaments.
Custom-made orthotics can be used to adjust your arch height and the curvature of your feet, as well as providing optimal support and contouring for comfort and smooth movement. Finding the right combination for your feet can make a huge difference to the way you walk and run, and this is an excellent solution in conjunction with strengthening and stretching exercise that help to maintain good foot health.
Find Great Footwear at Foot Solutions In Ireland
At Foot Solutions, our expert team can help you to find the very best footwear for your lifestyle and your budget. We are committed to improving the health of your feet and we offer free foot assessments, as well as services such as gait analysis and custom-made orthotics. If you are experiencing a foot condition such as fallen arches or plantar fasciitis, you’ll be amazed at the difference the right shoes can make.
We have an extensive range of supportive and stylish footwear, including sandals, trainers, formal shoes and boots, and we can offer advice and guidance on managing foot pain. Taking good care of your feet will enable you to lead an active life, and this is the best way to protect your wellbeing and longevity. The right shoes will help you to optimise your training and the way you move, and this is a great investment in your health. Visit us in your local Foot Solutions store or book your free foot assessment online today.
