An orthopaedic disorder known as “flat foot” occurs when the inner curve of the foot is absent. This illness frequently runs in families. Ankle pain is a common complaint among patients with flat feet. When the Achilles tendon malfunctions, the foot and ankle may undergo a variety of alterations.
Ankle and foot deformities, such as flattening of the arch, forefoot deformity, tightening of the Achilles tendon, arthritis, and the development of ankle and joint deformity, can arise. In this blog, we will discuss flat foot treatment options, types of surgery, possible side effects, and more.
Common Flat Foot Symptoms
While the condition does affect the way you walk, not all individuals experience symptoms of flat feet. It does, however, cause needless strain and stress on different parts of the leg that aren’t ready to bear the weight. The following are some of the main signs of flat feet:
- Leg cramps
- Foot pain upon walking, standing for too long, running, etc.
- Ankle pain
- Shin splints
- Lower leg pain
- Swelling along the inside of the ankle
- Tired or Fatigued Feet
- Overpronation
- Difficulty standing on tiptoes
Long-term flatfoot sufferers may also experience hip, lower back, and knee pain. These people are also more likely to experience secondary health issues like strain injuries, foot and ankle arthritis, and so on.
Flat Feet Non-Surgical Treatment Options
Supports for the Arch
Orthotic devices called nonprescription arch supports can help ease the discomfort associated with flat feet. It is occasionally advised to use specially made arch supports moulded to the shape of the feet. Although they often reduce discomfort and improve foot and ankle alignment, arch supports cannot cure flat feet.
Change Your Shoes
Wearing the right shoes can help guarantee that the foot has adequate support.
Stretches
The Achilles tendon may be shorter in certain individuals with flat feet. Stretching exercises for flat feet could be beneficial.
Physical Therapy
Overuse injuries could result from flat feet. To strengthen the foot muscles and tendons, a physical therapist might offer flat feet treatment. Additionally, physical treatment can enhance gait.
When is Flat Feet Surgical Treatment Recommended?
For those who have tried nonsurgical treatment for flat feet but still experience discomfort that limits their activities, surgery may be an option. Surgery to address the bone, ligament, and tendon problems causing the pain may be helpful if it does not improve after several months of therapy.
Types of Surgery
Achilles tendon lengthening, also known as gastrocnemius recession, lengthens the calf muscles. This procedure treats flatfoot and keeps it from coming back. This surgery is often performed alongside other procedures.
Tenosynovectomy
Another name for cleaning the tendon is a surgery utilised in the less severe and earlier phases of posterior tibial tendon insufficiency. It is done while the tendon is just slightly damaged and before the arch collapses. The remaining healthy tendon has its inflammatory tissue scraped away and discarded.
Tendon Transfer
This surgery restores the missing arch in the foot and corrects flatfoot. The operation involves removing the damaged tendon and replacing it with a tendon from a different part of the foot. The inflamed portion of the tendon is cleansed, removed, and then replaced with a synthetic tendon if the injury is only partial.
Cutting and Shifting Bones
This process, also known as an osteotomy, involves cutting and repositioning the bones of the foot to repair the arch. The most likely areas to be modified to get this desired effect are the midfoot and the heel bone.
Fusing the bones or lengthening the exterior of the foot are two possible uses for a bone graft. To keep the bones together while they recover, temporary devices such as screws and plates may also be utilised.
Who is Eligible for Flat Feet Surgical Treatment?
Flatfoot reconstructive surgery is uncommon, despite the prevalence of flat feet. It is usually reserved for individuals whose illness causes persistent discomfort that does not resolve with conservative, non-surgical treatment for flat feet. Until at least age three, flat feet are typical.
Your podiatrist may start conservative therapy options, including orthotics and calf stretches, if the disease continues after the child turns three. The pediatric orthopaedic doctor in India will probably just monitor the issue until your child enters kindergarten, though.
The percentage of youngsters who do not outgrow flatfoot is just about 15%. Even if they don’t, the great majority don’t need surgery.
Risks & Side Effects of Flat Feet Surgical Treatment
Although complications from flat foot reconstructive surgery are uncommon, they do carry some risks, just like any procedure. Complications from reconstructive surgery for flat feet include infections, injuries to blood vessels and nerves, and incomplete healing.
Sharp, severe foot pain and limited movement from the cast you’ll need to wear are typical side effects.
Orthotics for Flat Feet Treatment
Many people with flat feet have already tried both bespoke and over-the-counter orthotics with unsatisfactory results. Conventional orthotic devices are sometimes painful, inefficient, or both, and do not offer sufficient control to support a flatfoot. However, research has shown that properly constructed custom orthotics can significantly reduce flat-foot symptoms.
When the professionals create personalised orthotics for you, these guarantee both comfort and efficacy. Using the right orthotics can help avoid surgery and more foot flattening. They might suggest over-the-counter orthotics or specialised, custom functional orthotics for flat feet, depending on your condition. Ankle-foot orthotics may be required in certain more serious situations.
Start Your Journey to Healthy Feet with Trishla Ortho
If flat feet are causing discomfort and stopping you from enjoying your favourite activities, it’s time to seek help. Trishla Ortho can provide the best flat-foot treatment in the city with just one consultation. Contact us to learn more about the treatment options! You’ll notice a difference in your feet.
