Flat feet occur when the arches are low or touch the ground while standing. In babies and toddlers, low arches are usually part of development. Arches become more noticeable as the feet grow. Adults can also develop flat feet after an injury, illness, or age-related weakening of the tissues that support the arch. Some feet remain flexible, meaning an arch appears when the person stands on tiptoe. Other flat feet are rigid and stay flat in every position. Many people have no discomfort, but painful or changing arches may require attention.

Common symptoms include aching in the arch, heel, or ankle. The feet may feel tired after standing, and pain can make sports or activities harder. Some patients notice swelling near the ankle or uneven wear on their shoes. Flat feet can change the way weight moves across the feet. This can place extra strain on joints and muscles. A chiropodist can examine the arches, watch how the patient stands and walks, and check foot flexibility. The assessment may also include a review of symptoms and medical history. Imaging may be recommended when pain, stiffness, or an injury needs closer evaluation.

Chiropody care focuses on improving comfort and supporting foot movement. A chiropodist can recommend fitted shoes with support and enough room for the toes. Custom orthotics can support the arches and spread pressure across the feet. Padding or changes to an orthotic can address sore areas when walking. The chiropodist can monitor the arches and identify related problems, including corns, calluses, or altered walking patterns. Treatment is based on the cause of the flat feet and the symptoms. Assessments can be helpful when pain affects work, exercise, or mobility. If you have pain from having flat feet, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a chiropodist for effective relief and management tips.

Flat feet are a common foot condition. If you are experiencing pain or discomfort due to flat feet, please consult with Cynthia Chan, B.Sc., D.Ch from Healthy Advantage Foot & Orthotic Clinic. Our practitioner will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment. 

What Are Flat Feet? 

Flat feet are feet that do not have a well-defined arch in the middle of the sole of the foot. Flat feet may be flexible or rigid. Flexible flat feet have an arch when there is no pressure put on the foot, such as when one is sitting, but the arch disappears upon standing. Rigid flat feet lack an arch regardless of whether one is standing or not. 

Causes

Flat feet can be present from birth or acquired over time due to a weakening of the ligaments in the arch. Sometimes flat feet are caused by illnesses, injuries, or pregnancy. 

Symptoms

Flat feet often cause no noticeable symptoms. However, some people may experience pain and discomfort due to their flat feet. 

Symptoms associated with flat feet include:

• Pain in the arch, heel, ankle, or along the outside of the foot
• Overpronation of the foot
• Shin splints
• Aching or fatigue in the feet or legs
• Pain in the knees, hips, or lower back

Treatment 

In cases where flat feet cause symptoms, there are various treatments available. Wearing orthotic inserts in your shoes to provide more arch support, performing stretches, and taking medications may improve your symptoms. If you are overweight, losing weight can help relieve pressure on the feet. In severe cases, surgery may be considered. 

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Scarborough, ON . 

The feet contain many joints that work together to support balance and movement. Arthritis in the joints of the feet can cause pain, stiffness, and swelling. Depending on the cause, patients may also notice warmth or tenderness surrounding the affected area. The symptoms can make it harder to stand, climb stairs, or walk comfortably. Changes in the joints can also alter foot shape and affect balance. Several common types of arthritis can affect the feet and ankles. Osteoarthritis develops when the protective tissue between bones breaks down. Rheumatoid arthritis occurs when the immune system attacks healthy joint tissue. Arthritis can also develop following a foot or ankle injury.

A chiropodist can examine the feet and ankles to determine which joints are affected. The assessment can include checking joint movement, tenderness, and changes in foot shape. The chiropodist may also observe how the patient stands and walks. This can reveal pressure points and movement problems that increase discomfort. Imaging or medical testing can provide more information about joint damage or the type of arthritis involved. A clear diagnosis guides care based on the patient’s symptoms and daily activities. Early attention is important because joint problems can make routine movement harder.

Chiropody care is designed to reduce pressure and improve foot function. A chiropodist can recommend properly fitted shoes with cushioning, support, and ample toe room. Custom orthotics can improve alignment and move pressure away from painful joints. Padding or braces can provide added support and protect sensitive areas. The chiropodist can also manage corns, calluses, or nail problems that become harder to handle when joint stiffness limits movement. Regular assessments allow the chiropodist to monitor joint changes and adjust the care plan as symptoms change. If you have symptoms of arthritis that affect your feet or ankles, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a chiropodist for effective relief and management solutions.

Osteoarthritis in the feet or ankles can be a painful and disabling condition that may interfere with your daily activities. If you have arthritis, please consult with Cynthia Chan, B.Sc., D.Ch from Healthy Advantage Foot & Orthotic Clinic. Our practitioner will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment. 

What Is Osteoarthritis? 

Osteoarthritis is a condition in which the protective layer of cartilage in the joints breaks down over time. This loss of cartilage causes the bones to rub together during movement, leading to pain and inflammation. Osteoarthritis is associated with aging, and often affects the small joints of the feet and ankles. 

Symptoms

Symptoms of osteoarthritis include: 

• Joint pain
• Joint stiffness
• Swelling in or around the joint
• Restricted range of motion
• Difficulty walking

Diagnosis

Osteoarthritis can be diagnosed through physical examination. You may also need to have an X-ray taken to assess the extent of the damage caused by arthritis. 

Treatment

Treatment for osteoarthritis focuses on reducing symptoms and improving the function of the affected joints. Conservative treatments include oral pain medications, orthotic devices, bracing or immobilizing the affected foot or ankle, steroid injections into the affected joint to reduce inflammation, and physical therapy. In more severe cases, surgery may be necessary. 

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Scarborough, ON . 

Babies do not need shoes as soon as they are born. Before walking, socks or soft booties are usually enough to keep feet warm and protected. Shoes become more important when a baby begins taking independent steps, especially outdoors. Learning to walk involves developing balance, coordination, and awareness of the ground. Walking barefoot allows the feet and toes to move naturally, which supports healthy foot development. Parents should focus on protection rather than fashion when choosing a baby’s first walking shoes.

A baby may need shoes when walking outside on surfaces that could cause cuts, scrapes, or other injuries to their feet. Choose lightweight, flexible shoes with enough room for the toes to spread and move. A wide toe box, secure fastening, and a flexible, slip-resistant outsole are helpful features. Avoid stiff, heavy, or poorly fitting shoes because they can restrict natural movement and create unnecessary pressure on developing feet. Parents should also check that shoes fit comfortably without squeezing growing toes.

Indoors, shoes are generally not needed when the environment is safe and comfortable. Barefoot movement gives babies opportunities to feel the floor, practice balance, and improve coordination. Constant shoe use can limit sensory feedback and natural foot movement. Parents should still protect feet when indoor surfaces are cold, hazardous, or otherwise unsafe. As children grow, regularly check shoe fit because their feet can change quickly. Watch for redness, blisters, rubbing, or changes in walking that may indicate a poor fit.

Understanding when babies need shoes can help parents support healthy foot development without restricting natural movement. The goal is simple, protective footwear when needed, and plenty of safe barefoot time when appropriate. If your child develops foot pain, unusual walking patterns, or other concerns, it is suggested that you consult a chiropodist for a professional evaluation and effective foot care guidance.

If your child is experiencing foot or ankle pain, please consult with Cynthia Chan, B.Sc., D.Ch from Healthy Advantage Foot & Orthotic Clinic. Our practitioner will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment. 

Common Causes of Foot Pain in Children

While children can experience many of the same foot problems as adults do, some foot problems may be more common during childhood. 

Causes of foot pain in children can include:

• Deformities that are present from birth, such as flat feet or clubfoot
• Sever’s disease, which is an inflammation of the growth plate in the heel bone
• Various sports injuries, such as sprains and fractures
• Ingrown toenails
• Athlete’s foot
• Plantar warts

Prevention

It is important to look after the health of children’s feet in order to prevent future problems from arising. Keep your child’s feet clean and dry, trim their toenails regularly, ensure their shoes fit properly, and keep a watchful eye on any symptoms of foot pain, such as limping. If you notice any symptoms or if your child complains of foot pain, a chiropodist can help. 

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Scarborough, ON .