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Flat Feet
What does it mean to have Flat Feet?
Flat feet, medically known as Pes planus, occur when the longitudinal arch of the foot is partially or completely collapsed.
As illustrated in the image, a normal arch provides elevation and support to the foot, while a flattened arch - commonly called Flat Feet - brings the sole closer to, or fully in contact with, the ground.
If not addressed early, these changes can progress into:
- Phase 1: Flattened arch β Can increase pressure on the sole, potentially contributing to Hallux valgus over time.
- Phase 2: Stretched foot muscles and ligaments β May lead to plantar fasciitis or heel pain.
- Phase 3: Overpronation (tilted ankle) β Can strain the Achilles tendon, increasing the risk of Achilles tendonitis.
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Phase 4: Altered lower limb alignment β May affect knee and hip joints, potentially causing discomfort or pain.
Note: At Dr. Obooi, we aim to educate our clientele with clear, easy-to-understand explanations of their individual situations. We believe that understanding your own feet is key to maintaining long-term mobility and comfort. By recognizing early signs and changes, you can take proactive steps to manage symptoms, slow progression, and make informed decisions about your care and treatment options.
Flat feet is often a complex condition with varying degrees of arch collapse and associated symptoms. All types share one common feature: a partial or complete flattening of the longitudinal arch.
Other common characteristics may include changes in toe alignment, outward rotation of the forefoot, inward tilting of the ankle (overpronation), and increased tension in the Achilles tendon, which can alter walking mechanics and potentially worsen the condition.
Flat feet can also contribute to the development of related conditions, including Hallux valgus (bunions), swelling, joint pain in the knees or hips, tendon-related issues such as Achilles tendonitis, Plantar fasciitis, or occasionally hammer toes.
Once you understand what a persistent βsinkingβ or feeling of instability in your arch could mean, you understand where it can leadΒ and ways to support your feet and posture in order to reduce risk of progression.
Types of Flat Feet
Β
Flexible Flat Foot
Flexible flat foot is one of the most common types of flat feet. It often begins in childhood or adolescence and may continue into adulthood. It usually affects both feet and can progress over time.
The term βflexibleβ means that the arch is visible when the foot is not bearing weight, but flattens when standing. As the condition progresses, the soft tissues that support the arch (tendons and ligaments) may become stretched or irritated, which can contribute to further changes in foot structure.
Β
Rigid Flat Foot
Rigid flat foot is typically associated with structural abnormalities in the foot, which may be present from birth or develop due to abnormal connections between the foot bones.
In this type, the arch remains flattened regardless of whether the foot is bearing weight or not. This can affect foot mobility and may require assessment by a healthcare professional.
Β
Posterior Tibial Tendon Dysfunction
Posterior Tibial Tendon Dysfunction (PTTD), also known as arch collapse due to tendon strain, develops when the posterior tibial tendon gradually weakens or becomes overstretched. This tendon plays a key role in supporting the arch.
The condition may develop over time due to untreated flat feet, injury, or age-related changes. As the tendon becomes strained or partially damaged, the arch may collapse further, which can lead to discomfort and progressive changes in foot and ankle alignment, and may also affect the knees and hips.
With reduced arch support, additional structures such as ligaments may become strained, potentially contributing to conditions like plantar fasciitis, heel spurs, or discomfort in the Achilles tendon.
Symptoms
Possible signs of flat feet may include:
- Pain in the heel, arch, ankle, or outer edge of the foot
- Inward-tilting ankle (overpronation)
- Pain along the shin
- General foot or leg fatigue
- Discomfort in the lower back, hip, or knee
Diagnosis
An orthopedic specialist or surgeon will examine your foot while you are standing and sitting. X-rays are often used to assess the severity of the condition.
If flat feet are diagnosed but you do not experience symptoms, your doctor can advise on what to expect and how to reduce the risk of future problems.
Non-surgical Treatment
If symptoms are present, your specialist may recommend non-surgical options, including:
- Activity modification: Reduce activities that trigger discomfort. Avoid prolonged walking or standing to allow your arches to rest, then gradually resume normal activity as tolerated.
- Custom orthotics: Insoles designed to support the arches and address underlying causes of pain. Orthotics act as structural support, not soft padding, and may feel slightly uncomfortable during the first 10β14 days. Start gradually, wearing them a few hours per day and increasing over time.
- Immobilization: In more severe cases, a brace or cast may be used.
- Medication: Anti-inflammatory drugs may be prescribed to reduce pain and swelling.
- Physiotherapy: Treatments such as ultrasound therapy may provide temporary relief.
- Weight management: Excess weight increases stress on the feet and joints; consult your doctor for guidance.
- Footwear changes: Supportive shoes, combined with orthotics, are essential for managing flat feet.
- Ankle orthosis: In some cases, an advanced brace may be recommended to support the arches and improve walking, often in combination with custom footwear.
"The Dr.Obooi Moment"
Dr. Obooi sandals combine footwear with orthotic-inspired support in one product. They are designed to support the longitudinal arch and promote proper foot alignment during movement.
Unlike mass-produced shoes, every pair is custom-made for each individual, designed according to your foot specifics, comfort preferences, and daily activity needs. Each pair is intended to provide consistent support and assist in maintaining proper foot mechanics. β
#WalkFree β
#LiveBold
By providing consistent arch support, they may help reduce strain on the foot, improve weight distribution, and support overall foot mechanics, potentially alleviating symptoms associated with flat feet and related conditions.
To get the best effect, the sandals should be wornΒ as much as possible during the day - ideally around 80% of the time you are moving - and used regularly.
The sandals work naturally with your feet and are generally well tolerated. At the beginning, it is normal to feel some discomfort or pressure in the first 10-14 days as your feet adjust. The sandals do NOT function as a soft cushion, but as a supportive footbed.
Remember β the sandals are gently supporting your arches and applying counter-pressure to the areas that need it most. Once your feet adapt, and your arches are properly supported without collapsing or putting strain on ligaments, muscles, and nerves, you are supporting the underlying factors that may contribute to foot discomfort.
If you do not notice improvement over time, it may indicate that the root of the problem lies elsewhere, and exploring further options with a qualified healthcare professional is recommended.
When is Surgery Needed?
Surgery may be considered if symptoms do not improve with non-surgical treatment. Several surgical techniques exist to address issues related to flat feet, and in some cases, a single procedure or a combination of procedures may be recommended to improve foot function.
The choice of procedure depends on your individual circumstances, including the severity of the deformity (assessed via X-rays), age, activity level, and other relevant factors. Recovery time can vary depending on the procedure or combination of procedures performed.
Does Surgery Work?
Surgery can successfully correct the deformity, but Flat Feet can recur.
Why can it come back?
Surgery corrects the structure of the foot, but it does not always remove the underlying causes - such as weak support, poor mechanics, or long-term overload.
How to maintain results...
To keep the benefits of surgery long-term, it is important to:
- Wear supportive footwear consistently, like Dr.Obooi
- Use orthotics as recommended, like Dr.Obooi
- Follow recovery and strengthening guidelines, as advised by your healthcare professional
Disclaimer
This content is for educational purposes only and provides a simplified explanation to help you better understand your foot health. It is not medical advice and should not be used as a substitute for consulting a qualified healthcare professional.
Always seek guidance from a licensed doctor or specialist regarding diagnosis, treatment, or any concerns about your condition. Dr.Obooi products and guidance are designed to support comfort and foot mechanics, but they cannot replace professional medical care.
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12 products
12 products
The Two-Buckle Sandal offers premium support tailored for your feet with timeless, minimalist design. Its classic upper offers a secure, adjustable fit, while the custom footbed aligns posture and relieves pressure where it matters most. Made to order using cutting-edge CAM technology, this sandal delivers precision comfort in every step. Crafted in the Alps from fully traceable, European-sourced materials, itβs vegan by default - breathable, durable, and naturally anti-bacterial.
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Made-per-Order, Made to Last: Crafted only when you order, cutting waste by up to 99%. You choose a slower production time (5β14 days); we choose uncompromised quality.
-
Future is NOW: Revolutionize your shoe collection with individually crafted CAD designs for each foot! Footbeds created with advanced State-of-the-Art CAM technology adapted from orthopedic manufacturing, crafted in a family-owned Alpine workshop with over 100 years of shoemaking heritage.
-
Materials That Matter: Vegan by default, 100% European-sourced, fully traceable from footbed to lining, designed for comfort, durability and sustainability. This particular sandal uses a vegan anti-bacterial lining and faux leather on the outside.
The Two-Buckle Sandal offers premium support tailored for your feet with timeless, minimalist design. Its classic upper offers a secure, adjustable fit, while the custom footbed aligns posture and relieves pressure where it matters most. Made to order using cutting-edge CAM technology, this sandal delivers precision comfort in every step. Crafted in the Alps from fully traceable, European-sourced materials, itβs vegan by default - breathable, durable, and naturally anti-bacterial.
-
Made-per-Order, Made to Last: Crafted only when you order, cutting waste by up to 99%. You choose a slower production time (5β14 days); we choose uncompromised quality.
-
Future is NOW: Revolutionize your shoe collection with individually crafted CAD designs for each foot! Footbeds created with advanced State-of-the-Art CAM technology adapted from orthopedic manufacturing, crafted in a family-owned Alpine workshop with over 100 years of shoemaking heritage.
-
Materials That Matter: Vegan by default, 100% European-sourced, fully traceable from footbed to lining, designed for comfort, durability and sustainability. This particular sandal uses a vegan anti-bacterial lining and faux leather on the outside.
The Two-Buckle Sandal offers premium support tailored for your feet with timeless, minimalist design. Its classic upper offers a secure, adjustable fit, while the custom footbed aligns posture and relieves pressure where it matters most. Made to order using cutting-edge CAM technology, this sandal delivers precision comfort in every step. Crafted in the Alps from fully traceable, European-sourced materials, itβs vegan by default - breathable, durable, and naturally anti-bacterial.
-
Made-per-Order, Made to Last: Crafted only when you order, cutting waste by up to 99%. You choose a slower production time (5β14 days); we choose uncompromised quality.
-
Future is NOW: Revolutionize your shoe collection with individually crafted CAD designs for each foot! Footbeds created with advanced State-of-the-Art CAM technology adapted from orthopedic manufacturing, crafted in a family-owned Alpine workshop with over 100 years of shoemaking heritage.
-
Materials That Matter: Vegan by default, 100% European-sourced, fully traceable from footbed to lining, designed for comfort, durability and sustainability. This particular sandal uses a vegan anti-bacterial lining and faux leather on the outside.
The Two-Buckle Sandal offers premium support tailored for your feet with timeless, minimalist design. Its classic upper offers a secure, adjustable fit, while the custom footbed aligns posture and relieves pressure where it matters most. Made to order using cutting-edge CAM technology, this sandal delivers precision comfort in every step. Crafted in the Alps from fully traceable, European-sourced materials, itβs vegan by default - breathable, durable, and naturally anti-bacterial.
-
Made-per-Order, Made to Last: Crafted only when you order, cutting waste by up to 99%. You choose a slower production time (5β14 days); we choose uncompromised quality.
-
Future is NOW: Revolutionize your shoe collection with individually crafted CAD designs for each foot! Footbeds created with advanced State-of-the-Art CAM technology adapted from orthopedic manufacturing, crafted in a family-owned Alpine workshop with over 100 years of shoemaking heritage.
-
Materials That Matter: Vegan by default, 100% European-sourced, fully traceable from footbed to lining, designed for comfort, durability and sustainability. This particular sandal uses a vegan anti-bacterial lining and faux leather on the outside.
The Two-Buckle Sandal offers premium support tailored for your feet with timeless, minimalist design. Its classic upper offers a secure, adjustable fit, while the custom footbed aligns posture and relieves pressure where it matters most. Made to order using cutting-edge CAM technology, this sandal delivers precision comfort in every step. Crafted in the Alps from fully traceable, European-sourced materials, itβs vegan by default - breathable, durable, and naturally anti-bacterial.
-
Made-per-Order, Made to Last: Crafted only when you order, cutting waste by up to 99%. You choose a slower production time (5β14 days); we choose uncompromised quality.
-
Future is NOW: Revolutionize your shoe collection with individually crafted CAD designs for each foot! Footbeds created with advanced State-of-the-Art CAM technology adapted from orthopedic manufacturing, crafted in a family-owned Alpine workshop with over 100 years of shoemaking heritage.
-
Materials That Matter: Vegan by default, 100% European-sourced, fully traceable from footbed to lining, designed for comfort, durability and sustainability. This particular sandal uses a vegan anti-bacterial lining and faux leather on the outside.
The Two-Buckle Sandal offers premium support tailored for your feet with timeless, minimalist design. Its classic upper offers a secure, adjustable fit, while the custom footbed aligns posture and relieves pressure where it matters most. Made to order using cutting-edge CAM technology, this sandal delivers precision comfort in every step. Crafted in the Alps from fully traceable, European-sourced materials, itβs vegan by default - breathable, durable, and naturally anti-bacterial.
-
Made-per-Order, Made to Last: Crafted only when you order, cutting waste by up to 99%. You choose a slower production time (5β14 days); we choose uncompromised quality.
-
Future is NOW: Revolutionize your shoe collection with individually crafted CAD designs for each foot! Footbeds created with advanced State-of-the-Art CAM technology adapted from orthopedic manufacturing, crafted in a family-owned Alpine workshop with over 100 years of shoemaking heritage.
-
Materials That Matter: Vegan by default, 100% European-sourced, fully traceable from footbed to lining, designed for comfort, durability and sustainability. This particular sandal uses a vegan anti-bacterial lining and faux leather on the outside.
The Two-Buckle Sandal offers premium support tailored for your feet with timeless, minimalist design. Its classic upper offers a secure, adjustable fit, while the custom footbed aligns posture and relieves pressure where it matters most. Made to order using cutting-edge CAM technology, this sandal delivers precision comfort in every step. Crafted in the Alps from fully traceable, European-sourced materials, itβs vegan by default - breathable, durable, and naturally anti-bacterial.
-
Made-per-Order, Made to Last: Crafted only when you order, cutting waste by up to 99%. You choose a slower production time (5β14 days); we choose uncompromised quality.
-
Future is NOW: Revolutionize your shoe collection with individually crafted CAD designs for each foot! Footbeds created with advanced State-of-the-Art CAM technology adapted from orthopedic manufacturing, crafted in a family-owned Alpine workshop with over 100 years of shoemaking heritage.
-
Materials That Matter: Vegan by default, 100% European-sourced, fully traceable from footbed to lining, designed for comfort, durability and sustainability. This particular sandal uses a vegan anti-bacterial lining and faux leather on the outside.
The Two-Buckle Sandal offers premium support tailored for your feet with timeless, minimalist design. Its classic upper offers a secure, adjustable fit, while the custom footbed aligns posture and relieves pressure where it matters most. Made to order using cutting-edge CAM technology, this sandal delivers precision comfort in every step. Crafted in the Alps from fully traceable, European-sourced materials, itβs vegan by default - breathable, durable, and naturally anti-bacterial.
-
Made-per-Order, Made to Last: Crafted only when you order, cutting waste by up to 99%. You choose a slower production time (5β14 days); we choose uncompromised quality.
-
Future is NOW: Revolutionize your shoe collection with individually crafted CAD designs for each foot! Footbeds created with advanced State-of-the-Art CAM technology adapted from orthopedic manufacturing, crafted in a family-owned Alpine workshop with over 100 years of shoemaking heritage.
-
Materials That Matter: Vegan by default, 100% European-sourced, fully traceable from footbed to lining, designed for comfort, durability and sustainability. This particular sandal uses a vegan anti-bacterial lining and faux leather on the outside.
The Two-Buckle Sandal offers premium support tailored for your feet with timeless, minimalist design. Its classic upper offers a secure, adjustable fit, while the custom footbed aligns posture and relieves pressure where it matters most. Made to order using cutting-edge CAM technology, this sandal delivers precision comfort in every step. Crafted in the Alps from fully traceable, European-sourced materials, itβs vegan by default - breathable, durable, and naturally anti-bacterial.
-
Made-per-Order, Made to Last: Crafted only when you order, cutting waste by up to 99%. You choose a slower production time (5β14 days); we choose uncompromised quality.
-
Future is NOW: Revolutionize your shoe collection with individually crafted CAD designs for each foot! Footbeds created with advanced State-of-the-Art CAM technology adapted from orthopedic manufacturing, crafted in a family-owned Alpine workshop with over 100 years of shoemaking heritage.
-
Materials That Matter: Vegan by default, 100% European-sourced, fully traceable from footbed to lining, designed for comfort, durability and sustainability. This particular sandal uses a vegan anti-bacterial lining and faux leather on the outside.
The Two-Buckle Sandal offers premium support tailored for your feet with timeless, minimalist design. Its classic upper offers a secure, adjustable fit, while the custom footbed aligns posture and relieves pressure where it matters most. Made to order using cutting-edge CAM technology, this sandal delivers precision comfort in every step. Crafted in the Alps from fully traceable, European-sourced materials, itβs vegan by default - breathable, durable, and naturally anti-bacterial.
-
Made-per-Order, Made to Last: Crafted only when you order, cutting waste by up to 99%. You choose a slower production time (5β14 days); we choose uncompromised quality.
-
Future is NOW: Revolutionize your shoe collection with individually crafted CAD designs for each foot! Footbeds created with advanced State-of-the-Art CAM technology adapted from orthopedic manufacturing, crafted in a family-owned Alpine workshop with over 100 years of shoemaking heritage.
-
Materials That Matter: Vegan by default, 100% European-sourced, fully traceable from footbed to lining, designed for comfort, durability and sustainability. This particular sandal uses a vegan anti-bacterial lining and faux leather on the outside.
The Two-Buckle Sandal offers premium support tailored for your feet with timeless, minimalist design. Its classic upper offers a secure, adjustable fit, while the custom footbed aligns posture and relieves pressure where it matters most. Made to order using cutting-edge CAM technology, this sandal delivers precision comfort in every step. Crafted in the Alps from fully traceable, European-sourced materials, itβs vegan by default - breathable, durable, and naturally anti-bacterial.
-
Made-per-Order, Made to Last: Crafted only when you order, cutting waste by up to 99%. You choose a slower production time (5β14 days); we choose uncompromised quality.
-
Future is NOW: Revolutionize your shoe collection with individually crafted CAD designs for each foot! Footbeds created with advanced State-of-the-Art CAM technology adapted from orthopedic manufacturing, crafted in a family-owned Alpine workshop with over 100 years of shoemaking heritage.
-
Materials That Matter: Vegan by default, 100% European-sourced, fully traceable from footbed to lining, designed for comfort, durability and sustainability. However, this particular sandal uses a vegan anti-bacterial lining and leather on the outside.
The Two-Buckle Sandal offers premium support tailored for your feet with timeless, minimalist design. Its classic upper offers a secure, adjustable fit, while the custom footbed aligns posture and relieves pressure where it matters most. Made to order using cutting-edge CAM technology, this sandal delivers precision comfort in every step. Crafted in the Alps from fully traceable, European-sourced materials, itβs vegan by default - breathable, durable, and naturally anti-bacterial.
-
Made-per-Order, Made to Last: Crafted only when you order, cutting waste by up to 99%. You choose a slower production time (5β14 days); we choose uncompromised quality.
-
Future is NOW: Revolutionize your shoe collection with individually crafted CAD designs for each foot! Footbeds created with advanced State-of-the-Art CAM technology adapted from orthopedic manufacturing, crafted in a family-owned Alpine workshop with over 100 years of shoemaking heritage.
-
Materials That Matter: Vegan by default, 100% European-sourced, fully traceable from footbed to lining, designed for comfort, durability and sustainability. This particular sandal uses a vegan anti-bacterial lining and faux leather on the outside.
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To make solutions like ours, you need more than facilities or marketing. You need boutique production, medical and orthopedic knowledge and true footwear expertise. At Dr.Obooi, we combine technology with generations of craftsmanship, creating each pair to help you move better, feel better, live better.
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