Arch Pain Arch Height Arch Height You will most likely identify with one of these foot arch types. Low, average, and high arches are all normal variations amongst us. However, they all have some advantages and disadvantages which you should be aware of. Being aware of these differences can help you understand any existing complaints and reduce the risk of developing new ones. Low Arch A flat foot has no or very little arch height and is usually a flexible foot "“ this does not apply to a rigid flat foot which should be seen by a specialist podiatrist and/or podiatric surgeon. A flexible flat foot type makes maximum contact with the ground which reduces high pressure areas. It is however, a more flexible and unstable foot. Above: Static pressure plate recording of a typical flat foot "“ Visibly large contact area with the ground at the midfoot area with some high pressure areas marked in red. Common Problems : Difficulty with single leg balance test Posterior tibial tendon Dysfunction (PTTD) Medial Knee Pain Bunion / Hallux Abducto Valgus development Functional hallux limitus Overvue : Less likely to suffer from high impact pressure problems but more likely to develop soft tissue (tendon and ligament) damage from the instability of the foot. Reduce the risks : See a specialist musculoskeletal podiatrist for a detailed assessment. Stabilising footwear with arch support using orthotics can help control the arch and lim