How Flatfoot Affects Your Entire Body — and How Surgery Can Help

When something is out of alignment with your feet, it can affect your entire body. Research indicates that up to 23% of adults have flatfoot (also known as pes planus or fallen arches), so it’s a widespread issue.

Flatfoot describes a condition where the arches collapse, causing the entire sole to touch the ground. Patients with flexible flatfoot have an arch when they take weight off their feet; those with rigid flatfoot never have an arch.

Some people are born with flat feet. Others develop them over time due to injury, arthritis, obesity, or wear-and-tear. Many people suffer no adverse effects from flatfoot, while others experience symptoms ranging from mild discomfort to significant pain and mobility issues.

At Lone Peak Foot & Ankle Clinic in Draper and Orem, Utah, we help patients understand the far-reaching impact of flatfoot and explore treatment options, including surgery.

How flatfoot affects your body

Your feet form the foundation of your skeleton. When the arches collapse, that foundation shifts. Over time, you may feel the ripple effect throughout your body:

Foot and ankle pain

Flatfoot places extra stress on the ligaments and tendons in your feet and ankles. You may experience pain along the inside of your foot, swelling, or discomfort that worsens after standing or walking for long periods.

Knee problems

Because flatfoot changes how your foot hits the ground, it also alters how your knees move. That can cause knee pain, stiffness, and an increased likelihood of arthritis in the joint.

Hip and back strain

When your feet don’t provide proper support, your body must compensate. That often manifests as hip misalignment and lower back strain. Many patients with flatfoot complain of ongoing back pain that they don’t immediately connect to their feet.

Posture issues and fatigue

Flat feet can cause your posture to shift forward or to one side, making it harder to stand upright comfortably. You may notice increased muscle fatigue, especially in your legs and lower back, after even moderate activity.

Nonsurgical treatments for flatfoot

Most patients with flatfoot don’t need surgery. At Lone Peak Foot & Ankle Clinic, we typically begin with conservative approaches, such as:

Custom orthotics

Custom orthotics are specially designed shoe inserts that support the arch and help redistribute pressure.

Physical therapy

Stretching and strengthening exercises improve mobility and reduce strain. Targeted physical therapy can even improve arch height and strength in people with flexible flat feet.

Supportive footwear

Shoes with proper arch support and cushioning can make a big difference.

Medications

Anti-inflammatory medicines help manage pain and swelling.

Bracing

Some patients benefit from wearing a brace to stabilize the foot and reduce symptoms.

These methods can significantly improve comfort and function, especially in mild to moderate cases.

When surgery is the right choice

Sometimes, conservative care isn’t enough. If flatfoot still causes significant pain, limited mobility, or difficulty with daily activities, surgery may be the best option.

Flatfoot surgery restores the shape and function of your foot so it can support your body correctly. Techniques include:

Tendon repair or transfer

This approach strengthens or replaces damaged tendons that support the arch.

Osteotomy

Bone surgery reshapes or repositions bones to restore proper alignment.

Joint fusion

Fusing certain joints reduces pain and improves stability.

Implants

Sometimes we insert small devices to help create or support an arch.

The procedure we recommend depends on your condition. Dr. Greg Brockbank explains which approach best fits your needs and goals.

Flatfoot surgery recovery and results

Recovery from flatfoot surgery takes time and patience. You may need to wear a cast or orthopedic boot and avoid putting weight on your foot for several weeks. Physical therapy plays a critical role in restoring strength and mobility.

While the process can be challenging, most patients experience significant improvements in pain, stability, and quality of life after flatfoot surgery.

Flatfoot isn’t just a problem for your feet — it can affect your posture, joints, and overall health. If you live with pain, stiffness, or fatigue, contact us. With both conservative and surgical options available, you don’t have to let flat feet hold you back.

Reach out to Lone Peak Foot & Ankle Clinic by phone or online today to find out which flatfoot treatment option is right for you.