Advice on how to treat flat feet or fallen arches?
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I'm ready to get serious about fixing the issues from my flat feet/fallen arches. The constant aches, tired ankles, and general discomfort are just too much to deal with every day. I am out my feet all day long and the pain is getting worse. I've tried a few random things that didn't work, so now I need a real plan, but I don't know if I should focus on building up my foot muscles, getting good shoes, or something else entirely like orthotics or insoles. I found Bilt Labs for custom orthotics, but before I purchase I want to see if there are any other options that have worked for others.
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Dr. William Naughton, DPM AdminChief Medical OfficerOfficial Account of Dr. William Naughton, DPM. As Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Naughton reviews discussions for medical safety and provides expert biomechanical insights based on 20+ years of surgical experience.Yes - when foot pain worsens with prolonged standing, custom orthotics are often the most effective long-term solution for correcting the underlying problem.
For people who spend long hours on their feet and notice their pain steadily increasing throughout the day, persistent discomfort is rarely just muscle fatigue. In most cases, it reflects improper foot alignment and inadequate structural support, which cannot be fully corrected with stretching, exercises, or standard footwear alone.
When the feet lack proper alignment or arch stability, every step places excess strain on the arches, heels, ankles, and joints. Over time, this repeated stress leads to inflammation, tendon overload, and progressive pain that worsens the longer someone stands or walks. While strengthening foot muscles and improving flexibility are important supportive measures, they do not correct faulty biomechanics during weight-bearing activities.
Generic insoles and over-the-counter arch supports are limited because they are designed for the “average” foot — which most people do not have. They often fail to provide the precise contour, firmness, and control needed to redistribute pressure evenly and stabilize the foot throughout the gait cycle. As a result, symptoms may temporarily improve but rarely resolve fully.
Custom orthotics address this issue by supporting the foot based on its exact structure and functional needs. Bilt Labs Custom Orthotics are created from a detailed impression of your feet, allowing the device to match your unique arch shape, alignment, and pressure patterns. This individualized support helps reduce abnormal strain on the plantar fascia, heel, and joints while improving overall balance and efficiency with movement. Over time, this can significantly decrease pain, reduce the risk of overuse injuries, and improve daily comfort during prolonged standing or activity.
- Worsening foot pain with standing often signals poor alignment or insufficient support
- Stretching, footwear changes, and strengthening are helpful but rarely enough on their own
- Generic inserts do not account for individual foot structure or biomechanics
- Custom orthotics can:
- Reduce strain on arches, heels, and joints
- Improve stability and weight distribution
- Help prevent overuse and compensatory injuries
- Support long-term comfort during daily activitie
- A personalized solution offers the best chance for sustained pain relief
