Flat Feet (Pes Planovalgus)
Pes planovalgus, often called “flat feet,” is when the arch on the inside of your foot is lower than usual, causing the whole sole to touch the ground.
What is Pes Planovalgus?
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“Pes” means foot, “plano” means flat, and “valgus” refers to the heel tilting outward. Put together, pes planovalgus describes a foot where the arch is flattened and the heel angles slightly outward.
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This can make the foot look wider and the ankle appear to roll inwards when standing or walking.
Who gets it?
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Children: Almost all babies are born with flat feet. The arch usually develops between ages 3–10. Many children have flexible flat feet that improve naturally as they grow.
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Adults: Some people continue to have flat feet into adulthood. Others may develop it later due to ligament laxity, injury, arthritis, or changes in weight.
Do I need treatment?
Symptoms you might notice
• Feet that look flat when standing, but arches may reappear when on tiptoes.
• Shoes wearing out unevenly.
• Aching in the feet, ankles, or legs after long periods of standing or walking.
Treatment and management
• No treatment is needed if there are no symptoms.
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If discomfort occurs, options include:
- Supportive footwear or insoles (orthotics).
- Stretching and strengthening exercises for the foot and ankle.
- Weight loss and activity modification.
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Sometimes surgical treatment, if pain is persistent and severe, and has failed to respond to the conservative measures above.
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