This straightforward direction of the feet with heels apart is also noted in Spartan sculpture.
Those who stand a great deal should avoid distorted positions, such as resting the weight on the sides of the feet, or on one foot with the body sagging to one side. The body weight should be kept evenly supported on both feet.
Consult Specialist
When the condition of flat foot is found, the advice of an Orthopedic surgeon (specialist on bone deformities, etc.) should be sought, as often a plaster cast of the foot is required in order that a proper brace be adjusted to assist in the cure. In some cases, operative treatment may be needed.
The condition is one which should be treated by a physician or surgeon, and not by a shoemaker. The ordinary arch supports supplied by shoemakers do not cure flat foot. Shoes for such feet should be made to order, and have a straight internal edge.
All such measures must be supplemented by proper exercises, and the correction of faulty position of the feet while walking.
Unless “toeing out” is corrected by exercise and a proper shoe, an arch brace will do more harm than good.
The disturbances of health due to weak feet are manifold, just as are those due to eye-strain. Pain in the feet, legs and back, often mistaken for rheumatism, and improperly treated with drugs and liniment, chronic general fatigue and nervous depression are often due to this rather common affection.
Detecting Weak Feet
To detect weak feet, note whether there is a tendency to toe out when walking, and a bending inward of the ankles when standing or walking, or a disposition to walk on the inner side of the feet, as shown by the uneven wearing of the shoe. This condition may be present with a high instep, and no evidence of flat foot. As flat foot develops the inward bend of the ankle is easily apparent. The inner hollow of the foot disappears and the entire sole rests flat upon the ground when the shoes are removed.