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Flat feet, one of the most common foot deformities, is a condition in which there is little or no arch to the bottom of the foot so the sole of the foot rests flat on the ground; there is a lack of internal support for the arch of the foot, leading to fatigue and pain in the foot when standing and walking. Usually, both feet are affected. This condition is commonly referred to as "fallen arches". 
Causes
Flat feet can be an inherited condition, congenital flat foot, or an acquired condition, which develops over time. Many different factors can contribute to the development of acquired flat feet. These include, but are not limited to, the type of shoes a child wears, a child's sitting or sleeping positions, compensation for other abnormalities, rupture of ligaments or tendons in the foot, compensation for a tight Achilles tendon, obesity, and age. Flat feet can limit activities for some people, while others experience no difficulties in daily activities or sports. If left untreated, flat feet can lead to excessive pronation of the feet, causing other problems such as bunions, heel pain, hammertoes, shin splints, and knee, hip and back pain.
Treatment
If flat feet are causing discomfort or fatigue, the podiatric physician should be consulted. The most important aspect of treatment is determining the cause of flat feet. The podiatric physician can determine this through thorough clinical examination and special imaging studies such as x-rays, computed
tomography, and/or magnetic resonance imaging. Conservative treatment is effective in the majority of flat foot cases, and consists of options such as insoles, splints, manipulation, special shoes, braces, or casting. Surgery is an option which may be considered in severe cases if conservative treatment has not obtained the desired results.
In children with congenital flat feet, it is important to identify the problem early. Flat feet in small children may go away as the child grows. Many people live their entire lives with flat feet.
Prevention of acquired flat feet is the most effective treatment for this problem! Wearing well-made and well-fitting shoes with a good arch support can help to prevent aquired flat feet. If you have acquired flat feet, treatment options would target the cause. Conservative treatment options may include: walking to exercise the feet, stretching and strengthening exercises, physical therapy,
orthotics, modification of shoes, bracing, anti-inflammatory medications.
Flat feet that do not respond to conservative therapies, remain painful, and/or continue to cause other problems, may require surgery.
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