Are flat feet treatable?

Foot posture is a delicate balance maintained by a combination of active and passive structures. The passive components, namely the ligaments, serve as the architectural framework that binds the foot bones together, while the active elements, the muscles, orchestrate the intricate movements necessary for proper biomechanical function. When discussing collapsed foot arches, or pes planus, it's often a result of an imbalance: overly flexible ligaments coupled with weakened muscles fail to adequately support the foot's structure, leading to arch collapse.

Understanding this dynamic highlights the importance of proactive measures to prevent or address arch collapse before the foot structure becomes rigidified, which typically occurs around the age of 10. Once the foot becomes rigidified, reversing the condition through non-invasive methods becomes significantly more challenging.

Therefore, there's a critical window of opportunity during childhood and adolescence to intervene effectively. By focusing on activating and strengthening the intrinsic muscles of the foot, such as the Tibialis Posterior and Peroneus Longus, individuals can bolster their foot's support system and mitigate the risk of arch collapse, ultimately preserving optimal foot posture and function for years to come.