What causes flat feet?
A common cause is heredity, where the trait for flat feet is passed down from parents. In some people, the foot arches are visible when sitting, but they collapse when standing, indicating weak foot arches. An injury to the foot or ankle can also lead to flat feet.
Another cause is arthritis, particularly rheumatoid arthritis, which can affect the feet. Damage, dysfunction, or tearing of the tibialis posterior tendon, which helps support the foot arch, can also cause flat feet. Nerve or muscle diseases such as cerebral palsy, muscular dystrophy, or spina bifida can also result in flat feet.
Additionally, there are certain risk factors that increase the likelihood of developing flat feet. People with obesity or diabetes have a higher chance of developing this condition. Flat feet are also more commonly seen during pregnancy.