A normal foot has a curved shape with an arch in the middle. However, bodies come in many variations, and some patients’ feet have abnormal curvature. Whether their arches are too low or too high, having an abnormal foot shape can cause pain and impact these patients’ quality of life. There are many different treatment options available for those with flat or abnormally high arches. Sometimes, foot arch surgery is the best approach. The care team at Best Foot Doctor NY in Queens, NY, is prepared to help you weigh all of your options and decide on the best path forward.
If you’re experiencing pain and discomfort related to foot arch issues, it’s crucial to understand the underlying causes. If your doctor recommends arch reconstruction surgery, knowing what to expect can help the procedure go more smoothly. This article willl answer common questions from patients whose podiatrist has suggested surgical treatment for foot arch pain.
Why Does The Arch Of My Foot Hurt?
Sometimes, pain in the arch of your foot can be caused by something other than a high or low arch. One of the most common conditions behind this pain is plantar fasciitis. Your plantar fascia connects your heel to the front of your foot, and it can become irritated and inflamed for a variety of reasons. Your podiatrist can help you determine whether your pain is caused by plantar fasciitis, abnormal arch height, or another condition.
Why Do Fallen Arches Cause Foot Pain?
Fallen arches, or flat feet, are sometimes present at birth. Other times, they arise due to an injury to the bones, tendons, or nerves in the feet. Whatever the root cause, low arches can cause pain when they are significant enough. They can change how you walk and how weight is distributed on the bottom of your feet. Flat feet can also lead to other problems, such as bunions, foot calluses, and pain throughout your body.
Why Do High Arches Cause Foot Pain?
Too much strain is placed on your feet when your arches are too high. It’s also hard to buy footwear that accommodates your higher arches, so you may experience pain from ill-fitting shoes. When left untreated, high arches can lead to foot fractures, toe malformations, and pain when standing or walking due to inflammation.
What Can I Do At Home As An Alternative To Foot Arch Surgery?
While you’re considering arch surgery for flat feet or high arches, there are measures you can take at home to promote comfort. Some of these include:
- Switching to more supportive, better-fitting footwear
- Wear inserts in your shoes
- Apply ice to the painful area
- Perform exercises designed to relieve tension
- Take over-the-counter pain medications
Some patients find that these measures are enough to resolve their discomfort. However, if you’re experiencing painful arches, you should make an appointment to see a podiatrist. They can evaluate the severity of your condition and offer valuable advice.
Can My Podiatrist Treat Foot Arch Pain Without Surgery?
The doctors at Best Foot Doctor NY know how to fix fallen foot arches and high arches using a variety of approaches. Your doctor may run diagnostic tests to get to the root of the problem. They may recommend specific footwear, inserts, or exercises that may offer you some relief. They may also recommend physical therapy, medications, or other treatments.
If these treatments are not bringing you sufficient relief, ask your doctor: “Is there surgery for fallen arches or high arches that would offer me a better outcome?” When your pain stems from severely misshapen arches, surgery can be the best way to get lasting relief.
What Can I Expect If I Need Foot Arch Surgery?
Foot arch surgery can involve:
- Repairing tendons
- Fusing bones
- Cutting and reshaping bones
- Using part of one tendon to alter another tendon
Your doctor’s goal will be to correctly align your feet while keeping the procedure as minimally invasive as possible.
How Much Does Foot Arch Surgery Hurt?
Fallen arches surgery or surgery for high arches is done under anesthesia. This anesthesia may be local or general. You should be prepared for some pain after your surgery once the anesthesia wears off. However, your doctor will provide guidance for staying as comfortable as possible. Preparing your living space before surgery is helpful and makes it easy to navigate. It’s also a good idea to arrange for someone to help you with daily tasks for a while.
How Long Does It Take To Recover From This Surgery?
Your recovery period may last for around 12 weeks. For the first 6-8 weeks, you should avoid bearing any weight on the affected foot. In many cases, your doctor will recommend physical therapy to help with your comfort and mobility.
Keep in mind that once you have recovered, you’ll enjoy things you couldn’t experience before your surgery. When it’s easier to move around, and you live with less chronic pain, you’re able to do more of the things you love.
Visit The Best Doctors For Foot Arch Surgery In Queens, NY
At Best Foot Doctor NY, we’ll get you on the road to recovery from foot arch pain. Call Dr. Emmanuel Fuzaylov today at (718) 291 9020 to schedule your appointment at our locations in Brooklyn, Queens, or Manhattan!