Why Your Foot Pain Might Be Caused by Flat Feet – Especially in Singapore

Flat Feet in Singapore: What You Need to Know

What Are Flat Feet?

Flat feet (also called fallen arches) mean that the arches of your feet are lower than normal or don’t exist at all. When you stand, the entire sole of your foot touches the ground.

It’s very common in Singapore, especially in kids, young adults, and people who are on their feet all day.

Why Flat Feet Can Be a Problem

Not everyone with flat feet has pain, but for many people, it can cause:

  • Tired, aching feet after walking
  • Heel or arch pain
  • Knee, hip, or lower back discomfort
  • Difficulty finding comfortable shoes

When the arch collapses, your foot may not absorb shock properly. Over time, this affects your posture and puts stress on other joints.

Why It’s More Noticeable in Singapore

Living in Singapore, we walk a lot—whether through MRT stations, shopping malls, or walking to lunch. Add in high humidity, long hours standing (e.g. in teaching, retail, or nursing), and poor shoe choices, and foot strain builds up quickly.

Many people also wear flat sandals or slippers that give no arch support, especially during weekends or after work. Over time, this makes flat foot pain worse.

How to Tell if You Have Flat Feet

Here’s how you can check:

  • Wet your feet and step on a piece of paper or tiled floor
  • If your footprint shows almost the whole sole with little or no curve, you may have flat feet

You might also notice:

  • Shoes wearing out unevenly
  • Pain in the heel, arch, or ankle
  • Fatigue in your legs after walking short distances

What You Can Do

  1. Choose Supportive Footwear
    Avoid flat slippers or unsupportive shoes. Look for shoes with firm arch support and cushioning.
  2. Try Arch Supports or Insoles
    Custom orthotics or ready-made arch supports can reduce stress and improve your posture.
  3. Stretch and Strengthen Your Feet
    Regular exercises can improve foot muscle strength and relieve discomfort.
  4. Avoid Prolonged Barefoot Walking
    Even at home, try to wear soft slippers with arch support if you have tiled flooring.

When to See a Podiatrist

Prescription InsolesHeel Pain & Shockwave Therapy

If your foot pain affects your daily life or keeps coming back, book an appointment. At Feet First Podiatry, we can:

  • Assess your foot structure
  • Check for related issues like plantar fasciitis or tendon strain
  • Fit you with custom orthotics if needed
  • Recommend shoes suited for Singapore’s climate and your lifestyle

Stay Active Without the Ache

Your feet carry you everywhere—don’t ignore the signs of strain. A simple change in footwear or treatment plan can make a huge difference in how you walk, stand, and feel throughout the day.

 

Contact Us
📞 +65 8464 1858
📧 info@feetfirstpodiatry.com.sg

Walk smart, walk pain-free—with Feet First Podiatry.