How to Determine Your Foot Arch Type: Simple Test and Solutions

Understanding your foot arch type is essential for maintaining proper foot mechanics and preventing discomfort or pain. Whether you have flat feet, a normal arch, or high arches, knowing your foot structure can help you choose appropriate footwear and support to avoid issues like plantar fasciitis and arch pain. Here's a simple test to determine your foot arch type:




Foot Arch Test:

  1. Fill a shallow pan with water.
  2. Dip your foot into the water, ensuring the bottom of your foot is covered.
  3. Carefully remove your foot from the water and place it on a piece of cardboard or brown paper.
  4. Apply weight to your foot while standing on the cardboard.
  5. Remove your foot from the cardboard and take a photo for reference.

Interpreting Results:

  1. Flat Foot: If your entire footprint is visible on the cardboard, you likely have flat feet. With flat feet, your entire foot touches the floor when standing or walking, which can lead to foot pain, especially in the heel or arch area. Using arch-supported footwear or insoles can help alleviate discomfort and support your foot's natural structure.
  1. Normal Arch: If the middle portion of your arch is half-filled on the cardboard, you have a normal arch. A normal arch evenly distributes weight and pressure across the foot, providing adequate support for your body.
  1. High Arch: If the middle portion of your foot is empty or only partially filled on the cardboard, you may have high arches. High arches do not distribute body weight evenly, leading to increased pressure on the heel or ball of the foot. Proper arch-support footwear or insoles can help address this issue and provide added support.

    Browse our Prescribed Orthotics to learn more.

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