There may be better ways to treat your flat feet.

We usually don’t know what causes this common condition (called pes planus) in adults. The arch collapses. This increases the stress on the joints, tendons and tough connective tissue (called the plantar fascia) along the sole.

Shoe inserts (also called insoles or orthotics) can be quite helpful but there are many types. Some are stiff. Others are soft. Some lift up the arch more than others. Foot doctors (podiatrists) often recommend custom-fit inserts. These mold to the shape of your foot. These may be the most effective, but they are also the most expensive. And they are rarely covered by health insurance.

Other options to treat flat feet include pain relievers, such as acetaminophen, or anti-inflammatory drugs, such as ibuprofen. When a tendon or specific area of the plantar fascia is inflamed, a cortisone injection may be helpful.

However, none of these treatments corrects the problem. Occasionally, surgery is recommended as a last resort.

I would recommend seeing a podiatrist to review all of your treatment options.