**Flat foot** (or **flat feet**, also known as **pes planus**) is a condition where the arches of the feet are low or absent, causing the soles to come into near-complete or complete contact with the ground when standing. It can be congenital (present from birth) or acquired later in life due to factors such as injury, aging, or conditions like arthritis.
### Symptoms
- Pain or discomfort in the feet, especially in the arch or heel
- Swelling along the inside of the ankle
- Difficulty standing on tiptoes
- Shoes wearing out unevenly
### Treatment
- **Conservative:** Physical therapy, arch supports (orthotics), supportive footwear, rest, and stretching exercises.
![](https://i.ytimg.com/vi/o_Yuw_aOA0I/maxresdefault.jpg)