- posted: Feb. 20, 2026
Flat feet, also known as fallen arches, are a common foot condition that can affect people of all ages and activity levels. Some individuals are born with flat feet, while others develop them over time due to injury, aging, or changes in muscle and ligament strength. At the office of Douglas Robinson, DPM, in Campbell, CA, patients receive thorough evaluation and individualized care to relieve discomfort and support long-term foot health.
Common Causes of Flat Feet
Flat feet occur when the arches of the feet collapse or fail to develop properly. In some cases, this condition is present from childhood and continues into adulthood without causing symptoms. In others, flat feet develop gradually as the tendons and ligaments that support the arch weaken.
Injury to the foot or ankle, arthritis, obesity, diabetes, and prolonged standing or walking can contribute to arch collapse. Wearing unsupportive footwear over long periods may also place added strain on the structures that maintain proper foot alignment. Conditions such as posterior tibial tendon dysfunction are another common cause of acquired flat feet in adults.
Symptoms Associated With Flat Feet
Many people with flat feet experience no pain or functional limitations. However, others develop symptoms that interfere with daily activities. Common concerns include aching or fatigue in the feet, pain along the inside of the ankle, heel discomfort, and soreness in the arches.
Because flat feet can affect overall alignment, some patients also experience knee, hip, or lower back pain. Swelling along the inside of the ankle, difficulty standing for long periods, or frequent foot strain may indicate that the arches are no longer providing adequate support. Ongoing discomfort should be evaluated by a foot and ankle specialist.
Diagnosis and Treatment Options
Proper diagnosis helps determine the severity of flat feet and identify contributing factors. Dr. Robinson performs a detailed physical examination and may recommend imaging studies to assess bone structure, joint alignment, and tendon function.
Treatment depends on symptoms, lifestyle, and the underlying cause. Many patients benefit from custom orthotics that support the arch and improve foot mechanics. Supportive footwear, stretching exercises, and physical therapy may also be recommended to strengthen surrounding muscles and reduce strain.
Supporting Foot Health and Preventing Complications
Managing flat feet focuses on maintaining proper alignment and reducing stress on the feet and joints. Wearing well-fitted, supportive shoes and using prescribed orthotics can improve comfort and stability. Regular stretching and strengthening exercises help preserve flexibility and muscle balance.
Patients are also guided on activity modification and weight management when appropriate, as these factors influence foot health. Ongoing care helps prevent the progression of symptoms and supports long-term mobility.
Expert Flat Feet Care in Campbell, CA
Flat feet should not be ignored when pain, fatigue, or instability affect daily life. At the office of Douglas Robinson, DPM, patients receive comprehensive care for flat feet, from accurate diagnosis to personalized treatment planning.
To schedule an evaluation for foot pain or arch concerns, call (408) 370-3338 and take the next step toward improved comfort, stability, and confidence in movement.
- posted: Feb. 20, 2026
Flat feet, also known as fallen arches, are a common foot condition that can affect people of all ages and activity levels. Some individuals are born with flat feet, while others develop them over time due to injury, aging, or changes in muscle and ligament strength. At the office of Douglas Robinson, DPM, in Campbell, CA, patients receive thorough evaluation and individualized care to relieve discomfort and support long-term foot health.
Common Causes of Flat Feet
Flat feet occur when the arches of the feet collapse or fail to develop properly. In some cases, this condition is present from childhood and continues into adulthood without causing symptoms. In others, flat feet develop gradually as the tendons and ligaments that support the arch weaken.
Injury to the foot or ankle, arthritis, obesity, diabetes, and prolonged standing or walking can contribute to arch collapse. Wearing unsupportive footwear over long periods may also place added strain on the structures that maintain proper foot alignment. Conditions such as posterior tibial tendon dysfunction are another common cause of acquired flat feet in adults.
Symptoms Associated With Flat Feet
Many people with flat feet experience no pain or functional limitations. However, others develop symptoms that interfere with daily activities. Common concerns include aching or fatigue in the feet, pain along the inside of the ankle, heel discomfort, and soreness in the arches.
Because flat feet can affect overall alignment, some patients also experience knee, hip, or lower back pain. Swelling along the inside of the ankle, difficulty standing for long periods, or frequent foot strain may indicate that the arches are no longer providing adequate support. Ongoing discomfort should be evaluated by a foot and ankle specialist.
Diagnosis and Treatment Options
Proper diagnosis helps determine the severity of flat feet and identify contributing factors. Dr. Robinson performs a detailed physical examination and may recommend imaging studies to assess bone structure, joint alignment, and tendon function.
Treatment depends on symptoms, lifestyle, and the underlying cause. Many patients benefit from custom orthotics that support the arch and improve foot mechanics. Supportive footwear, stretching exercises, and physical therapy may also be recommended to strengthen surrounding muscles and reduce strain.
Supporting Foot Health and Preventing Complications
Managing flat feet focuses on maintaining proper alignment and reducing stress on the feet and joints. Wearing well-fitted, supportive shoes and using prescribed orthotics can improve comfort and stability. Regular stretching and strengthening exercises help preserve flexibility and muscle balance.
Patients are also guided on activity modification and weight management when appropriate, as these factors influence foot health. Ongoing care helps prevent the progression of symptoms and supports long-term mobility.
Expert Flat Feet Care in Campbell, CA
Flat feet should not be ignored when pain, fatigue, or instability affect daily life. At the office of Douglas Robinson, DPM, patients receive comprehensive care for flat feet, from accurate diagnosis to personalized treatment planning.
To schedule an evaluation for foot pain or arch concerns, call (408) 370-3338 and take the next step toward improved comfort, stability, and confidence in movement.
