{"id":7088,"date":"2026-03-27T15:31:30","date_gmt":"2026-03-27T15:31:30","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/integrativa.pt\/?p=7088"},"modified":"2026-03-27T15:31:30","modified_gmt":"2026-03-27T15:31:30","slug":"pe-plan-symptoms-types-and-benefits-of-physiotherapy","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/integrativa.pt\/en\/pe-plano-sintomas-tipos-e-beneficios-da-fisioterapia\/","title":{"rendered":"Flat feet: symptoms, types and benefits of physiotherapy"},"content":{"rendered":"
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Flat feet, also known as flat feet or valgus flat feet, is a common condition characterised by a reduced or absent medial plantar arch. In these situations, a large part of the sole of the foot comes into contact with the ground during walking or standing.<\/p>\n

Although it is often seen as a benign alteration, flat feet can in some cases be associated with pain, muscle fatigue, functional limitations and biomechanical alterations. These changes don't just affect the foot, they can influence the entire kinetic chain of the lower limb.<\/p>\n

Physiotherapy plays an important role in the conservative approach to flat feet and is often considered the first line of intervention in symptomatic cases, according to the available scientific evidence.<\/p>\n

Types of flat feet<\/h4>\n

There are two main types of flatfoot:<\/p>\n

- Flexible flat feet<\/span>This is the most common type. The plantar arch is not visible under load, but appears when the person stands on tiptoe or when the foot is unloaded. It usually responds well to conservative treatment.<\/p>\n

- Rigid flat foot<\/span>In this case, the plantar arch does not form, even when unloading or tiptoeing. It may be associated with structural, neurological or genetic alterations, requiring a more detailed clinical assessment.<\/p>\n

Symptoms associated with flat feet<\/h4>\n

Although many people with flat feet don't experience symptoms, when they do they can include:<\/p>\n