Flat Feet

Causes of Flat Feet

Foot shape and arch type have a strong hereditary component, but a number of conditions and events can cause or contribute to flat feet:

A posterior tibial tendon tear can cause the arches to fall.
Obesity and pregnancy put excessive stress on the arches and tendons and cause the arch to flatten.
Systemic conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis and diabetes can also lead to fallen arches and flat feet.
A flattening of the arch often occurs as a result of the aging process.