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an affiliate of:
Department of Orthopaedic Surgery
Columbia University Medical Center

Flatfoot/Fallen Arches

Flexible flatfoot is one of the most common types of flatfoot. It typically begins in childhood or adolescence and continues into adulthood. It usually occurs in both feet and progresses in severity throughout the adult years. As the deformity worsens, the soft tissues (tendons and ligaments) of the arch may stretch or tear and can become inflamed. The term “flexible” means that while the foot is flat when standing (weight-bearing), the arch returns when not standing.

Symptoms, which may occur in some persons with flexible flatfoot, include pain in the heel, arch, ankle, or along the outside of the foot, a “rolled-in” ankle (over-pronation), and low back, hip or knee pain.

Midtown Manhattan
60 East 56th Street
3rd Floor
New York, NY 10022
(212) 355-4229

NYP-Columbia Hospital
161 Fort Washington Avenue
2nd Floor
New York, NY 10032
(212) 355-4229

Riverdale
3616 Henry Hudson Parkway
Riverdale, NY 10463
(718) 548-5757


affiliated with
nyp logo white
an affiliate of:
Department of Orthopaedic Surgery
Columbia University Medical Center