Flat feet are commonly known as fallen or collapsed arches. It’s a relatively common condition that can affect up to 30 percent of the population, causing symptoms in 1 in 10 of these people. Usually, both feet are affected, but it’s possible to have a fallen arch on only one foot.

Flat feet are caused by a variety of conditions including injuries, obesity, and arthritis. Aging, genetics, and pregnancy can also contribute to flat feet. You’re also more likely to have flat feet if you have a neurological or muscular disease such as cerebral palsy, muscular dystrophy, or spina bifida.

Lose weight. Carrying excess weight on your body exerts excess pressure on your feet and can exacerbate flat feet. A study performed by the University of Wollongong, with results published in a 2006 issue of "Obesity," found that children who were overweight had significantly lower arches than children who were at a healthier weight. By losing weight, you may notice a decrease in your foot pain as well as a slew of other side effects of being overweight.

Switch your footwear each day. Wearing the exact same, unsupportive shoes each day can cause your feet to over-correct for the lack of support and the shape of the shoe, which can lead to fallen arches. By switching your footwear often, you ensure that your feet never adopt a certain shape because of your specific shoes. Arch support insoles is helpful.

Ditch high heels that wedge your feet into tiny spaces and cause you to balance on a skinny, spike heels. Heels alter your center of gravity and alignment and wearing them on a regular basis can render your arches almost useless. If you must wear heels, choose those with a wide width and box heel and wear them for short periods of time only, suggests the Health Mad website. Keep "commuter" shoes with you that you can change into when you're done wearing your heels.

Source: SportsRec, Healthline

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