What overpronation and flat feet are
Overpronation describes a foot that rolls inwards more than usual as you move through the step, often alongside a low or flat arch. On its own it is a variation, not a problem, so the real question is whether it relates to any symptoms or to your activity.
When it matters
Where overpronation is relevant, it can be linked with load related complaints further up the foot and lower limb. Plenty of people have flat feet and no trouble at all, which is why we assess before assuming anything needs doing.
When flat feet are worth checking
Most flat feet need nothing more than the occasional check. It is worth being assessed when there are symptoms that come with activity, such as aching through the arch, shin or knee, when the same injury keeps returning, or when a foot that used to have an arch becomes flatter over time. A foot posture that changes noticeably in adulthood is worth looking at rather than ignoring.
Children and flat feet
Flat feet in children are usually a normal part of development and most settle as a child grows. An assessment is worth it where a child has pain, gets tired or avoids activity, or where you simply want reassurance. We see children at the same Forest Hill clinic, and the podiatrist will be honest about whether anything is worth doing.
How we approach it
The podiatrist examines your feet, watches how you move and load, sometimes as part of a full gait and biomechanical assessment, and talks through your symptoms and goals. Where a plan is useful, it may include footwear and loading advice, strength work, and orthotics where they suit. Where nothing needs doing, we will tell you that too.
What can help
Where overpronation relates to symptoms, supportive footwear suited to your activity, building strength through the foot and lower limb, and managing load sensibly often help. Orthoses are one option where the assessment supports them, used to change how the foot is loaded rather than to “fix” the arch. Where nothing needs doing, we will tell you that.
Signs people often notice
- A low or flat arch when you stand
- The foot rolling noticeably inwards through the step
- Aching in the arch, shin or knee with activity
- Uneven wear across your shoes
How we work
From assessment to activity
The same structured pathway applies to every condition we treat.
Assess
We examine your feet and watch how you move and load.
Diagnose
We explain whether overpronation relates to your symptoms, or whether it is simply your normal.
Treat
Where useful, the plan may include footwear and loading advice, strength work, and orthotics where they suit.
Rehabilitate
We progress load and strength in line with your goals.
Return
We support a staged return to activity where symptoms have been present.
Seeing a podiatrist for Flat Feet & Overpronation in Forest Hill
Assessment and care is provided at Shop 26/500 Canterbury Rd, Forest Hill VIC 3131 by AHPRA registered podiatrists. You do not need a referral to book.
We regularly see people travelling from Blackburn, Mitcham, Vermont, Mount Waverley, Box Hill and Burwood East, along with the surrounding eastern suburbs of Melbourne. See all the areas we serve.
Cross-links
Treatments we may use
Questions
Common questions
I have flat feet but no pain. Do I need treatment?
Often not. Flat feet without symptoms usually need nothing more than the occasional check. The podiatrist will be honest with you about whether anything is worth doing.
Will I be told I need orthotics?
Only if the assessment supports it. Orthotics are one option among several, not an automatic recommendation.
Do I need a referral to have my foot posture checked?
No referral is needed. You can book online.
Are flat feet bad for running?
Not in themselves. Plenty of people run comfortably with flat feet. What matters is whether your foot posture relates to any symptoms, which is what the assessment looks at.
Can flat feet be corrected?
In adults, the aim is to manage symptoms and load comfortably rather than to change the shape of the foot. The podiatrist will explain what is realistic for you.
Should my child be treated for flat feet?
Often not. Treatment is considered where there is pain or difficulty, not for the appearance of the arch alone.
Book an assessment
Book online, or call the clinic on (03) 9877 2077.