How to Improve Balance With Flat Feet

"Flat feet" is a condition in which the middle part of the foot has little or no arch, causing the entire foot to touch the floor when you stand. Flat feet can begin in childhood or develop later in life because of rheumatoid arthritis, injury or obesity. Twenty percent of American adults have the condition as of 2010, according to The University of Maryland Medical Center. Poor arches in your feet may cause no complications, but sometimes can lead to pain, weakness and imbalance. Restoring and supporting existing arches in your feet can therefore improve balance.

Instructions

• 1

  Get fitted for orthotics. Custom orthotics can help absorb shock and improve the alignment of your feet, thereby increasing balance. Prefabricated orthotics available in stores may be of some benefit, but custom orthotics is more effective.

• 2

  Lose weight, especially if your flat feet developed later in life because of obesity. Less weight bearing down on your feet can help naturally restore the arches, improving balance.

• 3

  Stretch and tone the muscles of your feet, which can help restore arches, thereby improving balance. Point and flex your feet, do ankle circles in both directions, and practice picking up marbles with your toes. Rolling the bottom of each foot over a tennis ball can help break up tension in your feet.

• 4

  Wear supportive shoes. Proper support for what little arches your feet may have is important in preventing imbalances between the bones, muscles and ligaments of your feet.