Acquired flat foot
Dealing with Acquired flat foot
Supportive shoes
Getting the right footwear is extremely important for dealing with Acquired flat foot. Wearing supportive well-fitted shoes can relieve any aching caused by flat feet. For more guidance on this, visit our footwear advice page.
A home test for Acquired flat foot
Watch this short video which demonstrates the ‘heel raise’ test. You can try this test at home. Pain and/or an inability to perform multiple heel raises on one leg can guide treatment.
Flat foot home test
Insoles and orthotics
If you can do one or two heel lifts (see the ‘home test’ video demonstration above) before it’s painful, then in the first instance an over-the-counter, insole or orthotic (supportive device) can take pressure and pain away from the arch.
There are a vast range on the market, so to help select the right type for you, we have identified two options which might be suitable:
An orthotic only helps when it is worn in the shoe, and the benefits only last while you are actually wearing the device.
Vionic shoes are designed to provide cushioning, stability, arch support and flexibility.
Heat or ice packs
Heat packs. You may find that applying heat to the sore area helps relieve your pain and any associated muscular soreness. Use a microwaveable wheat bag or a hot water bottle wrapped in a towel. Keep it on for 15 – 20 minutes, checking your skin regularly to minimise the risk of suffering burn. Repeat 2-3 times per day. Do not place heat on a swollen body part.
Ice packs. This can help to temporarily numb pain. Apply an ice pack (or a bag of frozen vegetables wrapped in a tea towel) to the area for up to 10 minutes, 2-3 times per day.
Pain medication
Pain medication may help to manage the pain, allowing you to keep mobile. Speak to a pharmacist or your GP for further advice.
Further Treatment
If the condition does not respond or you can only do one heel lift, but it’s painful, or none at all because of the pain, then please consult your GP practice as further specialist assessment and treatment may be required.