The condition known as “flat foot” is one of the most common foot conditions in America affecting more than a quarter of the adult population. It is more common in patients who are elderly, overweight or have large feet. Simply defined, flat foot is the condition of lacking a rounded arch to the sole of the foot. Flat foot reconstruction surgery, while not always necessary, is a safe and reasonable treatment option if a patient’s quality of life is affected by their feet.
Causes of Flat Foot
There are several factors that can contribute to a flat foot. With a normal arch, the tendons and ligaments of the foot hold the base of the foot in a curved position. But certain conditions, many of which are listed below, weaken the ligaments causing the foot to fall.
- arthritis
- inflammation
- diabetes
- pregnancy
- trauma during birth
- inflammation
- nerve issues
- fractured foot
- tendonitis
Symptoms of Flat Foot
For many patients, a flat foot is merely a visual deformity but does not affect their quality of life. Some people go their entire lives without even realizing they have flat feet. But, for those that experience life-affecting symptoms, surgery may be an option.
Symptoms often include:
- foot pain
- leg pain
- back pain
- swollen feet
- abnormal ankle rotation
- rotated hip
- abnormal gait to compensate for rotated joints
Treatment Options
Any patients experiencing the symptoms listed above are invited to schedule an appointment with us at Best Foot Doctor NY so that we can assess your situation and help you decide if flat foot reconstruction surgery is the right option for you.
Before scheduling surgery, our providers may recommend custom foot orthotics or a specialized shoe to help support the arch and adjust your gait. In addition, ice, elevation, and over-the-counter anti-inflammatories may help to relieve pain and swelling.
Flat Foot Reconstruction Surgery
At Best Foot Doctor NY we are committed to providing the best care for your needs. Flat foot reconstruction surgery is a procedure done to adjust the bones and tendons in your foot to reposition them in place so that they support the arch. We will gladly refer you to one of our trusted colleagues for this procedure.
Depending on the factors causing your flat feet, reconstruction surgery may include fusing bones and joints together or moving tendons or bones to be in a position where they hold the foot in a natural shape more effectively. Pins and screws may be used to hold the bone in place.
Flat foot reconstruction surgery is very low risk and has been shown to be highly successful. General surgery risks including blood clots and infection are possible but unlikely.
After surgery, you will need to keep your foot immobilized in a cast for several weeks and remain non-weight bearing. After the initial recovery, you will transition to a walking boot and begin to have limited weight-bearing as directed by your podiatrist. About 2 months after surgery you will be instructed to begin physical therapy to aid in the recovery process.
Flat Foot Reconstruction Surgery Recommendations
As a New York podiatrist, we provide assessment, consultation, and referral options for those with flat feet. With locations in Queens, Brooklyn, and Manhattan we have a location ready to serve you. Contact us for a flat foot doctor reference today!