No, flat feet do not significantly affect your height. While having a typical arch might make someone appear slightly taller than someone with flat feet, the difference is minimal—a fraction of an inch at most. The length of your long bones, which primarily determines your height, remains unaffected by the arch of your foot.
Understanding the Minimal Impact
Several sources confirm that flat feet have only a negligible effect on overall height. For example, one source states that flat feet surgery, while improving posture and potentially making someone appear taller, doesn't significantly change actual height. https://bestfootdoctorny.com/flat-feet-surgery-faqs/ Another source notes that flat feet may affect height "by just a little bit," but this doesn't impact the length of the long bones responsible for height. https://www.quora.com/Does-being-born-with-flat-feet-cause-you-to-be-shorter-than-you-are-expected-to-be
The perceived difference in height likely stems from posture. Individuals with flat feet may have altered posture, appearing slightly shorter due to a less upright stance. This is correctable with supportive footwear or, in some cases, surgery. However, this postural change does not actually alter bone length.
- Posture: Flat feet can influence posture, potentially leading to a slightly less upright stance.
- Arch Height: A higher arch might contribute to a slightly taller appearance, but the difference is minimal.
- Bone Length: Bone growth, the primary determinant of height, is not affected by flat feet.
In Children
In children, flat feet are often developmental and tend to correct themselves as the child grows and their muscles and soft tissues strengthen. https://www.blossomsphysiotherapy.in/do-flat-foot-effect-your-child-growth/ The arch height increases naturally over time. While some factors may influence arch development, there's no evidence to suggest that flat feet hinder overall height growth.
