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.