Flat feet or fallen arches (over-pronation)

There are very few truly 'flat feet'. In fact, less than 5%of the population have flat feet with no arch present whatsoever. The majority of us have a normal arch, or slightly low arch. Only 5-10% of us have a high arch.

However, most people with a 'normal- to-low' arch actually suffer from excessive pronation during walking, running and standing. This means the foot may appear normal and a clear arch is present under the foot, especially when sitting down.

When we stand or walk, this situation changes with weight bearing. The arches collapse with every step we take, and the ankles roll inwards. This is called over-pronation. Pronation itself is not wrong as we need to pronate and supinate as part of our gait. Pronation (rolling in) acts as a shock-absorbing process and supination (rolling out) helps to propel our feet forward.

The most effective treatment solution for over-pronation is to wear an orthotic shoe insert. Footminders orthotic insoles correct over-pronation, thereby providing natural, lasting pain relief to many lower body aches and pains.

Footminders recommends the following insoles for flat feet and over-pronation:

What Causes Over-Pronation?

Over-pronation is a common biomechanical problem that occurs when the arches collapse while walking or standing. This condition hampers our natural walking pattern, causing an imbalance, and leading to wear and tear in other parts of the body with every step we take.

Whether you suffer from over-pronation like 70% of the population, or you have a true flat foot, in both cases your poor walking pattern may contribute to a range of different complaints. As we age, poor aligment of the feet causes very common conditions such as heel pain or knee pain.

Over-pronation has different causes. Obesity, pregnancy, age or repetitive pounding on a hard surface can weaken the arch, leading to over-pronation. Over-pronation is also very common with athletes, especially runners, who most of them nowadays use orthotics inside their shoes.