Pes planus (commonly referred to as 'flat feet') is a relatively common foot deformity and is defined by the loss of the medial longitudinal arch of the foot where it contacts or nearly contacts the ground1 . It can be flexible or rigid and it results in relative flattening of the plantar surface. Pes planus may be lifelong, or acquired through time, inflammation or other musculoskeletal problems. Pes planus treatment is generally only needed if the condition is new, painful or progressing, or when there is a fixed deformity or other associated problem.
This is a companion discussion topic for the original article at https://patient.info/doctor/pes-planus-flat-feet