Flat feet is a condition in which the arch in your foot is flattened due to an excessively flexible foot. This condition can happen for various reasons, but it is most often related to the elastic properties of the ligaments that connect the five metatarsals (bones) on top of each other. If you have flat feet, it means that these ligaments have too much elasticity and not enough rigidity.

Flat feet can be genetic or developmental, and they can also be caused by certain diseases such as diabetes mellitus, rheumatoid arthritis, polio, and others. In most cases, flat feet can be corrected using supportive shoes, but they may also require surgery in some cases.

In many cases, flat feet are asymptomatic (without symptoms) and thus do not require any treatment or correction. However, they can become painful and also lead to other problems such as knee pain or backache. In these situations, it is recommended that you wear a shoe with appropriate arch support to help maintain proper foot position and reduce discomfort.

Your podiatrist can fit you for custom foot orthotics to correct your flat feet and prevent painful conditions. 

The most common problems associated with flat feet are as follows:

1. Hypermobility of the joints in the foot 
2. Weakness of the plantar fascia 
3. Abnormal arches becoming flattened 
4. Puffy feet with excess foot volume
5. Under or overpronation of the foot 

If you or a loved one have flat feet, you should contact your podiatrist to determine the appropriate course of action for your foot to treat your pain and correct the pain you have been experiencing.