In most cases, flat feet are caused by an injury, creating problems with walking, running, and standing for long periods of time. Thankfully, there are orthopedic surgery options such as flat foot reconstruction surgery that can help restore your foot's natural arch and replace the weak tendon in your foot.
What You Need To Know About Flat Foot Reconstruction Surgery
What Are The Symptoms Of Flat Feet?
If you look at the bottom of your foot, you will see a natural curve on the inside between your heel and your toes. Creating that arch is a set of ligaments and a tendon located in your lower leg and connecting to your foot. When the ligaments fail to do their job due any number of factors, the condition known as flat foot occurs. Flat foot can occur from:
- Birth abnormality
- Injury
- Obesity
- Arthritis
- Aging
- Inflammation of the tendons
- Nerve conditions
Many people with flat feet do not experience significant problems that require treatment, however, it is not uncommon for individuals to experience problems such as:
- Back pain
- Tired feet
- Feet that swell and become itchy
Flat feet can also cause the entire foot to touch the floor, therefore rotating the ankle inwards causing pain and swelling. These symptoms can increase with weight-bearing pressure and flat-footed individuals may have difficulty while walking with the inability to stand on their toes.
What Is Flat Foot Reconstruction Surgery
Flat foot reconstruction surgery is performed to relieve pain caused by flat foot and restore function in individuals whose foot arches are very low and where orthotics have not helped. The procedure for flat foot reconstruction surgery requires patients to go under general anesthesia with frequent follow-up appointments post-op as your foot heals overtime.
The procedure consists of cutting and reconstructing bones in the foot to rebuild the arch. The heel bone and the midfoot often require reshaping in order to achieve the desired result. Temporary screws and plates may be used to hold the bones together while they heal.
Recovery From Flat Foot Surgery
After your surgery, your foot will immediately be placed in a cast all the way up to your knee. You will be given follow-up appointments and may be prescribed pain medication if required. During the first two weeks, you will not be allowed to put any weight on the foot and will be required to keep it elevated to reduce swelling. For 2-6 weeks, your foot will be placed in a boot cast and you will still be required to keep weight off of the foot. For 6-12 weeks your foot will be placed in a brace and you will be able to start slowly putting weight onto your newly constructed foot. After 12 weeks, you will finally be able to wear your own shoes and begin your physiotherapy appointments. Most patients are able to return to a good level of activity and sports within six months post-operation. In the long term, you may be required to wear insoles in your shoes to help to continue supporting your foot's arch.
Kelowna Orthopedic Surgery
Flat feet can cause an array of discomforts and problems that can affect the overall quality of your life. Flat feet may or may not cause pain or discomfort, however, if they do, the non-surgical options for alleviating these symptoms include custom orthotics, a walking boot, anti-inflammatories, or simple treatment with ice and elevation. If the pain continues, you may need to consider physical therapy or surgical alternatives such as flat foot reconstructive surgery. These innovative orthopedic solutions can restore your quality of life, getting you back to doing things you love without discomfort or pain.
If you are experiencing pain or discomfort with your feet, contact Okanagan Health Surgical Centre located in Kelowna. Our highly-experienced team of orthopedic surgeons can restore your feet to alleviate any discomfort you may be experiencing to have you back on your feet in no time. To learn more about flat foot reconstruction surgery or any of our other orthopedic foot and ankle surgery options, contact our team by calling 1-877-505-8895 or by filling out our online contact form.
FAQ
Q: What if orthopedics do not help with my discomfort or pain?
A: If your orthopedics are not alleviating your pain and discomfort, your doctor may recommend surgical alternatives such as flat foot reconstruction surgery.
Q: How long will it take for me to be back to normal functioning after flat foot reconstruction surgery?
A: It will only take up to 12 weeks for you to be walking and performing other regular activities after your surgery, however, it may take up to 6 months for you to get back to doing high-impact sports
Q: Is flat foot reconstruction surgery painful?
A: This surgery is performed under general anesthesia so you will not feel anything during the procedure, but some pain and discomfort is normal during recovery.
