Can Flat Feet Cause Leg And Back Pain?

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Can Flat Feet Cause Leg And Back Pain?
June 25, 2025 by admin

Flat feet, also called fallen arches, might not seem like a serious problem at first. But for some people, they can lead to pain in the legs, knees, or even long-term back trouble. The shape of your feet has a big role in how your whole body moves. If that shape is off, it can impact your walking.

Here is how flat feet can cause you pain, and what options you have.

What Are Flat Feet?

Flat feet occur when the arches of your feet are very low or nonexistent. This means that the full bottom of your foot touches the ground when you are standing. Some people are born with flat feet, while others develop them as they age or after an injury or health condition.

How Do Flat Feet Affect Your Body

Your feet are the foundation of your body. When your foundation is unstable, the rest of your body (knees, hips, back, and shoulders) have to make adjustments. With your body constantly making these adjustments over time, it can lead to poor posture and unbalanced movement. This is where pain starts to manifest. 

Feet that are “flat-footed” often cause the ankles to turn inwards. This is not only a change in the way you move, but it also increases the loading and stress on your legs and ultimately your lower back. 

 

You may experience:

  • Pain in your heels or arches (especially after prolonged standing or walking)
  • Stiffness or tiredness in the legs
  • Pain in your knees or hips
  • Lower back pain that develops or worsens from standing for prolonged periods of time

Can Flat Feet Actually Cause Back Pain

Yes. Your feet are the first layer of support. It not only affects how your spine stays aligned but it can cause muscle fatigue or continuous lower back pain. It is not simply a matter of walking, it relates to how each part of your body compensates for uneven support.

When to Worry

Flat feet do not automatically cause pain. However, if you have regular pain in the legs, knees, or back, and you know that you have flat feet, it might be a good idea to get it looked at. There are a few other signals to look for:

  • Pain after light activity
  • Unusual wear patterns on shoes
  • Swelling on the inside of the ankle
  • Difficulty standing or walking for long periods

What Can help

There are a few simple things that can help manage flat foot pain:

  • Supportive shoes: Only wear shoes with appropriate arch support and padding
  • Shoe inserts: Customized insoles can helps foot balance and relieve pressure
  • Stretching and movement: Strengthening your feet and leg muscles can help.
  • Healthy weight: The less weight there is on your feet, the less pain.
  • Depending on the severity of pain, some people may require therapy or surgery.

When to get medical advice 

If you are experiencing leg pain or back pain frequently, don’t delay acting sooner. Getting early intervention helps to treat your injury and address further problems.  

At Sugam Hospital, our best orthopedic doctor in Chennai can assess and treat your condition. We can help you do all of your movements pain-free!