Flat Feet Can Affect More Than Just the Feet
Flat feet can do more than flatten your arches—they can pull your posture out of balance and put pressure where it doesn’t belong. Left unaddressed, they may lead to knee pain, back discomfort, or daily fatigue.
The problem often goes unnoticed until it starts affecting your lifestyle. But you don’t need to settle for constant strain.
At East Coast Podiatry, we offer supportive, science-based approach tailored to your foot type and lifestyle. Whether it’s stabilising your gait, easing pressure, or helping you stay on your feet longer, we’ll find the right path forward.
Feel the difference from the ground up
What are the Common Causes of Flat Feet?
Flat feet can occur for several reasons. In many cases, the condition is inherited. However, flat feet may also develop over time due to:
- Genetics – Some individuals are born with naturally low or absent arches
- Injury – Damage that can weaken arch-supporting structures
- Posterior Tibial Tendon Dysfunction (PTTD) – A common cause of adult-acquired flatfoot where the tendon becomes inflamed or torn
- Rheumatoid arthritis – Joint inflammation can lead to structural changes in the feet
- Obesity – Excess weight places added strain on the arches
- Pregnancy – Hormonal shifts and increased weight may temporarily affect arch contour and support
- Ageing – Natural wear on tendons and joints over time can cause arches to collapse
- Weak or flexible flat feet – Arches that flatten when standing, even if a visible arch is present when sitting
What are Flat Feet?
Flat feet, or fallen arches, occur when the foot’s arch collapses, causing the entire sole to make contact with the ground.
This condition is common in Singapore due to regional genetic factors, ligamentous laxity, or acquired wear and tear. Walking daily on hard, artificial surfaces can further contribute to the degeneration of foot structure over time.
The foot serves as the body’s foundation, and when its alignment is compromised, it can trigger a ripple effect throughout the body. Flat feet often lead to added stress on the knees, hips, and back, as other joints compensate for the lack of support.
Over time, this imbalance can result in soft tissue issues such as Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis—two of the most frequent complaints linked to this condition.
Discover How We Manage Your Flat Feet Back to Health
Methods to Relieve Discomfort and Promote Well-being
Flat feet can be managed with customised foot orthotics (custom insoles) and appropriate footwear. Older individuals may require a more aggressive approach to managing their flatfoot condition. More severe cases of flat foot will require an ankle foot orthotic (AFO) for stabilisation or correction.
Custom Foot Orthotic
These prescription-only devices are specifically tailored to each patient’s condition, using carefully selected materials and designs that suit their medical needs and lifestyle. Modern technology allows custom insoles to fit comfortably into various types of footwear, including pumps, court shoes, and sports shoes.
Ankle Foot Orthotics (AFOs)
AFOs are custom-made devices designed to support foot and ankle stability, especially for those with mobility challenges. Each device is moulded to the patient’s leg and foot, and may be rigid, semi-rigid, or dynamic, depending on the level of support required. They are crafted with both static and dynamic biomechanics in mind, offering lightweight, low-profile support ideal for daily comfort.
Flat Feet Scanning Machine
At East Coast Podiatry, we utilise advanced 3D scanning technology with CAD/CAM precision of up to ±0.4mm to assess flat feet accurately. Patients undergo three types of scans conducted by trained clinicians to ensure precise data capture. This scan data is combined with biomechanical assessments to design orthotics that specifically address each patient’s flat foot condition.
What are the Common Symptoms of Flat Feet?
Flat-footed patients may experience symptoms such as:
Common signs include:
- Foot pain, particularly in the arch or heel
- Ankle pain or a feeling of instability while walking
- Tired or aching feet, especially after standing or walking for long periods
- Swelling along the inner side of the ankle
- Flattening of the arch, more noticeable when standing
- Outward tilting of the heel, sometimes accompanied by uneven shoe wear
- Limited foot flexibility or stiffness in the arch
- Knee, hip, or lower back discomfort due to altered posture or pronation
What Sets Us Apart
A Perfect Blend of Expertise, Care, and Clinical Precision
Specialised Support by Experienced Podiatrists
Our internationally trained and accredited podiatrists bring years of clinical experience in managing a wide range of foot and lower limb concerns.
Personalised and Evidence-Based Care Plans
Modern, Well-Equipped Clinic Environment
Holistic Approach to Foot & Lower Limb Wellness
Support for All Ages and Lifestyles
Ongoing Guidance and Education
No Downtime
5-Year Warranty for Orthotic Devices
Flat Feet Journey at East Coast Podiatry
Tailored Support Designed Around You, Every Step of the Way
Initial Examination & Consultation
We begin with a detailed evaluation to understand your concerns and identify the root cause of your discomfort, allowing us to address both symptoms and underlying issues.
Personalised Care Plan
Our podiatrists craft a tailored plan based on your specific needs and goals, guiding you towards lasting relief and improved function.
Custom Orthotics (Prescriptive)
Precision-made orthotic devices can be tailored to your foot structure and may be recommended to provide additional support and relieve strain, depending on the specifics of your condition.
Education & Prevention
We guide patients on proper footwear, stretching, and lifestyle habits to help manage symptoms and reduce the likelihood of recurrence.
Follow-Up Care
Ongoing reviews help track progress, refine support, and ensure sustained foot health.
Meet the Podiatrist Team
Experienced & Internationally Trained Podiatrists Ready To Serve
Michael Lai, D.P.M
Georgina Tay
Ari Tria Dzulkifle
Maria Salus
Peggy Tian
Jordan Williams
What Our Patients Say
Read Why They Recommend Us
2 reviews . 1 photos
2 weeks ago
NewGreat experience at East Coast Podiatry (Orchard)! Had a persistent nail fungus issue over the last couple of years and it was solved so quickly and efficiently with the team. My podiatrist - Ms Peggy explained and assessed my condition in great detail, and recommended me the follow up actions required to get the issue all treated. Was an overall superb and pleasant treatment experience 🙂
6 reviews . 5 photos
We have been with Gerorgina for my daughter in-toes and flat foot issue. Gone through a thorough treatment, exercises, feet braces and we can see massive improvement in my daughter's posture and feet.
Georgina and the staff have been very helpful and making every visit smooth and pleasant. Keep up the good work!
5 reviews . 2 photos
a month ago
Our 6-year-old son had very severe in-toeing when we first visited Dr. Michael in October 2024. We’re incredibly thankful for his expertise—after just 8 months of treatment, our son is now very close to having an ideal foot structure.
What we appreciated most was the all-in-one pricing—it covered everything from braces to follow-ups, making the treatment both convenient and great value for money. The clinic’s location in Orchard is also a big plus for accessibility. Highly recommend Dr. Michael, especially for concerned parents dealing with pediatric foot issues!
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2 reviews . 1 photos
a month ago
Had in-grown toenails that has been troubling me for years. Got it fixed in less than 30 mins and 100% would recommend for people suffering the same.
The professionalism and care by Ari and the rest of the team are top notch and attention to care throughout the whole recovery process as well.
6 reviews . 2 photos
a weeks ago
NewStaff were extremely polite and helpful. Podiatrist Jordan Williams made me felt at ease and comfortable. He explained every test and provided useful advice to correct my issues. Strongly recommend for post marathon foot issues.
6 reviews . 5 photos
2 month ago
Thank Ms Peggy, my podiatrist for helping me cure my plantar fasciitis. I felt so much relieved after shockwaves therapy sessions with you. And the exercises you taught me really helped alot. Thank you Ms. Vivay for the friendly customer service everytime I visited your place. And appreciate Mr Syah's help to fit in the Customized soles for me. It's a awesome experience to be guided by all of you. Thank you so much 😊
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Our Clinic Locations
Easily Accessible Care, Wherever You Are
We recommend scheduling an appointment before visiting our clinics.
Orchard
Kembangan
Novena
Bukit Timah
Marine Parade
Orchard Clinic
302 Orchard Road, Tong Building #09-02 (Rolex Centre), Singapore 238862
Kembangan Clinic
18 Jalan Masjid, Kembangan Plaza #B1-02, Singapore 418944
Novena Clinic
10 Sinaran Drive, Novena Medical Center #08-13, Singapore 307506
Bukit Timah Clinic
1 Fifth Avenue, Guthrie House #02-04, Singapore 268802
Marine Parade Clinic
80 Marine Parade Rd, #08-04 Parkway Parade, Singapore 449269
