Gcoe - your response was very thorough and interesting. Yes, a life time of flat feet....as my father also has and he is almost crippled with it. I don't want to end up like that. I think it is hard to come to terms with not jogging but yes, I can use the gym equipment and do use the bike and cross-trainer. Losing weight is a real challenge and even my GP says I am must unlucky in that nothing I do shifts it. He says it is because of the thyroid problem. Sometimes it seems like everything is stacked against me....in my more "sorry for myself" times. Currently battling to find shoes that are comfortable without being too orthopaedic looking and suitable for the summer.
Thanks for all the information. The podiatrist did video my gait with and without shoes. I am seeing her again next week: she did mention custom orthotics but I may also wait to see what the physio suggest in July. Meanwhile, am using the iced bottle/stretching exercises.