You may not know what a flat foot is, but judging from the way the term is used, you know you don't want one. Being caught flat-footed is a negative term implying you can't react quickly. Of course, that perception is wrong.

People with flat feet may feel that their feet are abnormal, but that's simply not true. Everyone's foot is different, and if yours are on the flattish side, you can take steps to relieve any pain or discomfort that you may be experiencing.

WHAT ARE FLAT FEET?

For many people, the tendons in the foot connect in a way that lifts the middle of the sole. You are said to have flat feet (or sometimes called “fallen arches”) if you have a minimal arch or no arch at all — the entire bottom surface of your foot is in complete or near complete contact with the ground while standing. When you walk barefoot in the sand, your tracks will show a complete outline of your feet.

SYMPTOMS OF FLAT FEET

Flat feet or low arches can sometimes result in discomfort or pain in the arch or heel of the foot, often exacerbated by the stress and strain of walking or standing on hard surfaces. People with flat feet may also express difficulty in finding proper fitting, comfortable footwear. Some people may also have pain that goes beyond the foot and affects the calf, knee, hip and back. When your feet are affected, your entire body can suffer.

CAUSES OF FLAT FEET

The shape of your feet is determined, for the most part, by your genes. Most people have flat feet as small children as the internal structure of the foot has not fully developed. As people age, many people form a visible contour in the middle of their feet. Others do not. Either situation is considered normal.

You may have a visible arch and lose it as you age for a number of reasons. You could have acute injury to the arch of your foot. Being overweight can put excess pressure on your foot, which may cause flat feet. Simple aging is also an issue as your arches can flatten over time. Diseases like rheumatoid arthritis and diabetes can also be factors in this condition.

SUPERFEET HELP FOR FLAT FEET

The supportive shape of Superfeet insoles and footwear provide the structure and cushion your flat feet crave, and can combat the aches and fatigue caused by standing and walking on hard surfaces.

WHICH SUPERFEET WILL WORK BEST FOR FLAT FLEET?

To find the right Superfeet, start with your shoes. What type of shoes are you wearing? What you are doing in those shoes? We think you deserve to experience the I-never-knew-my-feet-could-feel-this-good benefits of the Superfeet shape in all your footwear. That’s why we make insoles for casual and dress shoes, insoles for high heels, insoles for hikers, insoles for running shoes, insoles for snow sports, insoles for skates, and more.

We know feet (and shoes!) come in all different shapes and sizes. When you add the heel-cradling, arch-hugging shape of Superfeet to your shoes, you treat your feet (no matter the shape) to the personalized structure and support they crave.

Originally published on www.Superfeet.com