The human foot is ideally suited to walking upright and running on a variety of surfaces, but not standing for hours on hard floors wearing shoes that offer little support. Going barefoot is a healthier option, but is impractical most of the time. Foot pain can affect every movement, and while there is no universal remedy, arch supports for flat feet can be helpful in some cases.

While this condition might be symptomatic of addition physical problems, the medical community does no classify it as a disease or physical defect. When born, a baby has naturally level soles, and will not develop the characteristic arch until around four or five years of age, depending on the growth rate of various ligaments, tendons, muscles and bone. Many people have naturally flat arches.

Problems arise for adults when tendons become stretched or torn, or if arthritis or nerve degeneration is a factor. The cause of this pain can be as simple as wearing the wrong high-heeled shoes, but other physical issues can also generate symptoms. Previously broken bones can cause skeletal problems later in life, and rheumatoid arthritis produces aching joints.

Those who suspect a problem can check easily by wetting the foot, then standing on a dry spot that will easily show the print. A uniformly solid print without any gaps indicates that the arch may technically be called flat. This may or may not be an actual medical problem, but if it is a new discovery, or is accompanied by sharp pain, a medical appointment may be needed.

Those who experience symptoms may tire quickly when standing motionless, or may have sharp pains in the sole or heel. There can be unusual swelling on the sole, additional back and leg pain, and an inability to stand on tiptoe for more than a few seconds. Overall physical condition and general lifestyle are also factors. Overweight people place more stress on their bones, and runners may enjoy high-impact aerobics.

In most cases, there is no need for surgery or long-term treatment. Changes in habits and daily activities can make the most difference, but may not be practical. The most commonly used method of easing foot pain is through the use of orthotic inserts or insoles. These devices are slipped inside the shoe to provide specific extra support, and may be individually designed, or purchased over the counter.

There is controversy surrounding the efficacy of these devices. Some physicians maintain that healthy people do not need a temporary solution, and should instead concentrate on eliminating the factors that actually induce the pain. Some view foot discomfort as a symptom rather than a cause, and may actually discourage use of shoe inserts in favor of improved diet, exercise, and overall physical conditioning.

When the discomfort becomes predominant, wearing orthotic supports can be an excellent temporary solution, and can provide a respite from the nagging background pain that is distracting and exhausting. There is no actual proof that wearing arch supports can actually make previous damage worse. Along with recommended foot exercises and shoes that are activity-appropriate, they can help take the pain out of standing.