Flat feet producing pain when walking

Dear Ask The Doctor: I am suffering from flat foot.My left foot is entirely flat and my right foot is 90% flat. I did face this problem till I was 18,I had no pain while walking. I developed it later. Just a few minutes of walk makes it swell and the pain is severe. Even my left knee pains terribly whenever i fold my leg and sit for few hours. Is there any solution to this.

Dear Sravanti: Your feet are the foundation of your body. If your feet are out of alignment, it can cause problems throughout your body's skeletal structure. When the arch is fully collapsed or rolls inward, you have flat feet, meaning you're missing crucial arch support. People with flat feet must therefore shift pressure from walking to other parts of the foot, which can cause intense pain. If left untreated, flat feet not only cause pain, but can lead to other more serious foot and lower body joint problems. In most people, flat feet can be treated with proper shoes. Look for shoes that: offer support and stability through the arch, use insoles that support the arch and help stabilize the heel. Also, consider using custom orthotics to aid in arch support. In extreme cases, surgery may be required to stabilize the bones and improve foot support and function. A podiatrist or orthopedic doctor will decide if surgery is necessary.