Flat Feet, Bunions & Lower-Limb Gait Issues
Comprehensive biomechanical assessment and conservative management for symptomatic flat feet (pes planus), high arches, bunions (hallux valgus), and alignment-related leg fatigue.
Understanding Flat Feet, Bunions & Lower-Limb Gait Issues
Foot posture varies widely across the population. Having a low arch or mild bunion does not automatically mean you need treatment; however, when structural alignment places excessive strain on the posterior tibial tendon, plantar fascia, big toe joint (first MTPJ), ankle, or knee, targeted biomechanical intervention can significantly improve comfort and function.
Common Symptoms & Presentation
- Tired, aching arches or inner-ankle fatigue after standing, walking, or working on hard floors
- Pain, redness, or bony prominence around the big toe joint (bunion / hallux valgus) irritated by footwear
- Pain or swelling along the inside of the ankle (posterior tibial tendon dysfunction)
- Uneven shoe wear patterns or aching knees and shins linked to foot rolling (overpronation or supination)
Underlying Biomechanical & Clinical Causes
- Hereditary foot structure, ligamentous laxity (hypermobility), or forefoot varus alignment
- Posterior tibial tendon overload allowing progressive arch lowering in adulthood
- First ray instability and tight footwear contributing to hallux valgus (bunion) progression
- High rigid arches (pes cavus) reducing natural shock absorption and overloading the heel and ball of the foot
How Eternal Podiatry Assesses This Condition
Dr Sumit Arvind assesses weight-bearing and non-weight-bearing foot posture, first-MTP joint mechanics, posterior tibial tendon strength, ankle range of motion, and dynamic gait to determine whether your alignment is contributing to your symptoms.
Evidence-Based Treatment Pathways
Biomechanical & Gait Assessment
Thorough evaluation of joint mechanics, muscle strength, and lower-limb alignment.
Learn moreCustom 3D Foot Orthotics
Precision 3D-scanned orthotics designed to control excessive pronation, offload painful bunion joints, or cushion rigid high arches.
Learn moreFootwear & Intrinsic Strengthening
Practical footwear matching and targeted foot/ankle strengthening exercises to support long-term joint health.
Learn moreFrequently Asked Questions
Can podiatry help bunion pain without surgery?
While conservative care cannot reverse an established bony bunion deformity, offloading the first MTP joint with custom orthotics, footwear modifications, and joint mobilisation can substantially reduce pain and slow progression.
Do flat feet always require custom orthotics?
No. Pain-free flat feet that function well do not require treatment. We prescribe orthotics and strengthening when flat feet cause arch fatigue, heel pain, tendon overload, or knee/ankle strain.