Flat Feet Surgery Miami
For flat feet surgery in Miami, we offer service at our Luxe Feet Surgery Clinic. Our team is well-trained in all surgical methods related to flat feet. Our primary focus is to provide compassionate, warm, and ethical treatments. We use state-of-the-art technology to ensure that flat feet surgery is minimally invasive yet effective
AVERAGE COST
$14,000
PROCEDURE TIME
30 – 60 Min
BACK TO WORK
8 - 12 week
FULL RECOVERY
12 - 24 months
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What is flat feet?
The flat feet deformity, also known as pes planus, affects a significant portion of the population. According to global statistics, 1 in 4 individuals suffer from this condition. At Luxe Feet Surgery Clinic, we understand the impact that flat feet can have on an individual’s daily life and offer surgical solutions for those in need.
Flat feet are characterized by the fact that the bones that make up the arch of the feet are closer to the ground, leading to the moniker “fallen arches.” This results in the arch of the feet being too low, glued to the ground, or even non-existent. The imperfection of flat feet is most noticeable when an individual is standing. If you are experiencing discomfort or difficulty due to your flat feet, our clinic is here to help.
Symptoms that flat feet need treatment
Flat feet can cause a variety of symptoms that may indicate the need for treatment. These symptoms can include:
Pain or discomfort in the feet, ankles, knees, or legs.
Swelling or inflammation in the feet or ankles.
Difficulty standing or walking for long periods of time.
Fatigue or cramping in the feet or legs.
Difficulty fitting into shoes properly.
A feeling of instability or “giving way” in the feet.
Difficulty participating in physical activities or sports.
Lower back pain.
It’s important to note that not everyone with flat feet will experience symptoms, and some people may have mild symptoms that do not require treatment. However, if you are experiencing any of these symptoms and they are affecting your quality of life, it is best to consult a doctor or podiatrist for an assessment and treatment options.
Types of flat feet
At Luxe feet Surgery clinic, our specialists have the experience to evaluate and classify the different types of flat feet that a patient may have. The treatment for flat feet will depend on the type and conditions of the patient’s feet.
Flexible Flat Feet: This is the most common type of flat feet and is characterized by an arch that collapses when bearing weight, but returns to normal when non-weight bearing.
Semi-Flexible Flat Feet: This type of flat feet is characterized by a small and almost non-existent arch in the resting position. When the foot is placed on the ground, the arch disappears and the sole of the foot flattens. This type of flat feet cannot be fully returned to its normal position, but can be improved to some degree.
Rigid Flat Feet: In this type of flat feet, the foot does not present an arch either in the resting position or when it is resting on the ground. The arch is completely non-existent and cannot be manually forced to its normal position. This type of flat feet is a perfect candidate for surgery, and the identification of possible bony blocks, such as coalitions and other deforming forces, is crucial for its diagnosis.
Our doctors at Luxe feet Surgery clinic will evaluate the patient’s feet and determine the type of flat feet they have, and then provide the best treatment options for their condition.
Causes of flat feet
There are several causes that can provoke flat feet. Let’s see which are the most common:
- Flat feet deformity present at birth or genetic, ready to develop due to hereditary factors.
- Suffering from posterior tibial tendon injuries.
- Having a disease that affects muscle and nerve function.
- Joint hypermobility, which is also known as a double joint. It is when the ligaments are too flexible or have been stretched too much.
- Abnormal union of two bones, also known as a coalition, resulting in a rigid flat feet.
- Suffering from arthritis that generates deformities in the joints.
- Risk factors such as obesity, diabetes, ageing or pregnancy.
- Suffering trauma as a result of an accident or fall in which ligament tears and fractures can occur that cause sudden very painful flat feet.
Cost of Flat Feet Surgery in Miami
In Miami, the cost of flat feet surgery generally lies between $5000 and $12000, effectively addressing the concerns related to the painful and inconvenient condition. The pricing is determined by a combination of elements, including the surgeon’s fee, anesthesia, use of the medical facility, and aftercare.
The specific cost can vary, however, depending on the severity of the individual’s flat feet condition and the chosen healthcare provider. Although the expense may seem significant, the surgery’s long-term advantages, such as enhanced mobility and reduced pain, can offer a considerable return on investment. As always, it’s beneficial to consult with your healthcare provider or insurance company about possible financial assistance or installment options.
Understanding Adult Acquired Flat Feet
Adult acquired flat feet, also known as posterior tibial tendon dysfunction (PTTD), is a condition that develops in adulthood and results in the collapse of the arch of the foot. It is characterized by pain and progressive deformity caused by the stretching or weakening of the posterior tibial tendon and ligaments that support the foot’s arch.
This can lead to a tearing of the soft tissues, such as tendons and ligaments, causing pain and discomfort. The deformity caused by PTTD is often irreversible, as the vital ligaments and posterior tibial tendon cannot be replaced once they are lost, making it important to seek treatment as soon as possible.
Causes of acquired flat feet in adults
Acquired flat feet in adults is a condition that develops later in life and is characterized by pain and progressive deformity. The causes of acquired flat feet can include:
Ageing: as we age, the strength of our muscles, tendons and ligaments decreases, and the amount of blood flowing to these tissues also decreases due to the narrowing of the arteries.
Obesity: the added weight on the arch of the foot can exacerbate the effects of ageing on the foot and lead to the development of flat feet.
Arteriosclerosis: this is the narrowing of the arteries due to the build-up of plaque in the vessels. This can cause decreased blood flow to the foot and contribute to the development of flat feet.
Tear of the tibial tendon: the tibial tendon is responsible for supporting the arch of the foot. When it tears, the arch collapses and the ankle, heel bone and feet turn inward, causing pain and discomfort.
Stretching and tearing of the ligaments: as the tendon tears, the ligaments are also stretched and torn, causing the bones in the arch to slip out of position and the arch to collapse.
Pronation: the ankles, heel bone, and feet also turn inward, known as pronation. This can lead to the deformity progressing until the feet dislocates outward from below the ankle joint, which can cause significant discomfort.
It’s important to note that acquired flat feet in adults is a progressive condition and early treatment is important to prevent the deformity from worsening and causing more pain.
Characteristics of acquired flat feet in adults
Prevalence: Adult-acquired flat feet is 4 times more common in women than in men.
Age of onset: The most frequent age of onset is around 60 years.
Pre-existing flat feet: A good part of those who suffer from this deformity already had flat feet to some degree, although in other cases not.
Arch flattening: Those who were not born with flat feet and begin to develop the deformity will notice that the arch begins to flatten more than before.
Pain and swelling: You may also feel swelling and pain on the inside of the ankle.
One-sided: Adult acquired flat feet can affect only one foot and not necessarily both.
Risk factors: Although the ultimate causes of this condition remain unknown to some extent, the most common risk factors have been found to be diabetes, hypertension, and obesity.
It’s important to note that adult acquired flat feet is a progressive condition and early treatment is important to prevent the deformity from worsening and causing more pain.
The 3 stages of acquired flat feet in adults
Acquired flat feet in adults is a progressive condition that goes through 3 distinct stages, each characterized by specific symptoms and changes in the feet. It is important that patients seek treatment as soon as they notice any of the symptoms in these 3 stages:
Stage I: Inflammation or swelling occurs in the posterior tibial tendon, in the area near the inside of the ankle. At this stage, the patient may experience pain, swelling, and tenderness in the area.
Stage II: A visible deformity is noted when comparing one foot to the other. One foot will look normal while the misshapen one becomes flatter and turned inward. At this stage, the deviation can still be returned to its normal position with treatment.
Stage III: This is the most advanced stage of adult acquired flat feet deformity. The foot is deformed in a very painful rigid way. Greater pain is felt on the outside of the ankle. At this stage, the most certain thing is that the only solution is to perform flat feet surgery.
It’s important to note that early diagnosis and treatment of acquired flat feet in adults can help to prevent the deformity from progressing and becoming more severe.
What is flat feet surgery?
Flat feet surgery is a reconstructive procedure that aims to remodel the feet to restore the normal arch. The surgeon will take into account several factors when deciding which type of surgery is the most appropriate for the patient. These factors include:
The conditions of the ankle and feet: The surgeon will evaluate the current state of the patient’s ankle and feet to determine the best course of treatment.
The causes of flat feet: Understanding the underlying causes of the flat feet can aid in determining the best type of surgery for the patient.
The structure of the bones: The shape and structure of the bones in the feet will be evaluated to determine the best surgical approach.
The shape of the ligaments and muscles: The surgeon will evaluate the shape and condition of the ligaments and muscles in the feet to determine the best course of treatment.
The body type: The patient’s body type, including their weight and height, will also be taken into account when deciding on the best type of surgery.
All these factors will be taken into account by the surgeon to determine the best type of flat feet surgery for the patient.
Flat feet surgery is performed under general anesthesia, with the patient being unconscious during the procedure. The surgery is done in a clinic operating room that is fully equipped and antiseptic. The surgeon makes 3 incisions in the foot and ankle to access the affected tendon, carry out the necessary actions, and readjust the heel bone to correct the posture. Sometimes a metal screw or plate is inserted into the top of the foot to give the arch elevation.
After the surgery, most patients stay in the medical unit overnight to monitor the progress of the first hours after the operation and then can go home for recovery. Flat feet surgeries have a low risk and high success rate, and both feet can be corrected at the same time, or only one.
Types of flat feet surgeries
Not everyone who needs flat feet surgery will undergo the same type of operation. What is common is that in most cases flat feet surgeries take place with minimally invasive procedures. But depending on the characteristics of each patient, one type of surgical procedure will be applied and not others. The most common types of flat feet surgery are the following:
- Lengthening of the Achilles tendon: This surgery involves lengthening the Achilles tendon to improve the flexibility and support of the arch of the foot.
- Tendon Cleaning: This procedure, called a tenosynovectomy, is used in the early stages of flat feet to remove inflamed tissue from the tendon.
- Tendon Transfers: This surgery involves moving a tendon from one location to another to provide better support for the arch of the foot.
- Ligament repair: This surgery involves repairing or reconstructing the ligaments that support the arch of the foot.
- Fusion: This surgery involves fusing bones together to improve the alignment and stability of the foot.
- Osteotomies: This type of surgery involves cutting and repositioning bones to correct the deformity and restore the arch of the foot.
All of these types of surgeries are performed under general anesthesia, and the type of surgery that is best for a patient will depend on the patient’s specific condition and the surgeon’s recommendation. The recovery period may vary depending on the type of surgery and the patient’s overall health.
How do I know if I have flat feet?
It is very easy to determine if you have flat feet. When standing directly on the ground, without shoes, you will notice that the entire sole of your foot is pressing into the ground. The inner sides of both feet should be checked especially while standing barefoot on the ground. If in the area where the arch should be, the sole of the foot rubs against the ground or rests on it, then we are dealing with a flat feet. On the other hand, when the inside of the foot is raised from the ground, then there is an arch and that is a sign that the foot is not flat.
There are a few signs and symptoms that may indicate that you have flat feet. Some of the most common include:
- Pain or discomfort in the feet, ankles, or legs
- Difficulty standing on tiptoe
- Swelling or tenderness in the feet or ankles
- Wearing out of the soles of shoes unevenly
- Difficulty with balance or coordination
- Foot fatigue or cramping
- Arch or heel pain
A physical examination by a healthcare provider or a podiatrist can also help to diagnose flat feet. They may look for an absence of an arch when the person is standing or when the person’s weight is on the foot, or a flattening of the arch when the person stands on their toes. X-rays or MRI’s can also be used to confirm the diagnosis and to check if there are any complications.
Tips for recovery after flat feet surgery
Recovering after flat feet surgery can be challenging, but following these tips can help ensure a smooth and speedy recovery:
- Keep your feet elevated: During the first 2 weeks after surgery, it is important to keep your feet elevated above your heart to reduce swelling and pain.
- Follow your physiotherapist’s instructions: Your physiotherapist will give you special recommendations for rehabilitation and support on how to remove weight from your leg.
- Limit your movements: It’s important to limit your movements during the first few weeks of recovery. Lie down with your feet elevated and only make the necessary movements, such as going to the bathroom or washing.
- Avoid smoking: Nicotine can negatively affect bone and wound healing, so it’s important to avoid smoking during the entire recovery period.
- Avoid anti-inflammatory drugs: Anti-inflammatory drugs can slow or prevent bones from fusing together, so it’s best to avoid taking them during recovery.
- Use a wheelchair if needed: Any movement should avoid supporting the weight of your body on the feet that underwent surgery. If needed, use a wheelchair for mobility.
It is important to follow the instructions of the surgeon and to do the recommended physical therapy. This will help in the healing process and will be able to recover the mobility and the use of the foot as soon as possible.
How much recovery time do I need after flat feet surgery?
Recovery is usually different for each person since some people recover faster and others take longer. In general, recovery times must be respected, to avoid unwanted complications. However, in any case, patients should always consult their doctor with any questions. The recovery stages are as follows:
- The first 2 weeks: Patients leave the hospital with a cast that will keep the feet immobilized for the first 2 weeks. At this stage, the feet should remain elevated as long as possible. Patients should not lean on their feet to move, and the ideal, as we have already said, is to use a wheelchair.
- From 2 to 6 weeks : After the first 2 weeks, the cast and sutures are removed. A new cast or removable immobilizing boot is placed. In this stage of recovery, the weight of the body cannot yet be supported on the feet. It is necessary to continue using a wheelchair, a walker, or crutches to get around.
- From 6 to 12 weeks: During this stage, patients will be able to begin to support the feet slightly, although the feet are not yet ready to support the full load of the body. The help of an orthopedic device or insole is recommended to place in normal shoes and begin to support the feet.
- From 12 weeks: At this time the feet can begin to be used normally, although some patients need additional time to receive the load from the body again. Physical therapy may be recommended to improve foot mobility and strengthen the muscles. However, swelling and immobility can last for months after surgery.
- From 1 or 2 years: A full recovery from flat feet surgery is expected, and the patient can perform all kinds of activities.
Benefits of flat feet surgery
There are many benefits that patients notice after flat feet surgery. In fact, the benefits far outweigh the risks, indicating that it is advisable to perform surgery whenever it is necessary and the patient’s health allows it. Some of the benefits or pros of flat feet surgery are:
- It is a permanent solution to resolve the flat feet deformity.
- It is a low-risk, high-reward medical procedure.
- It does not require additional treatment once the flatfeet reconstruction has been performed.
- Restores full feet mobility.
- Helps patients return to normal activities.
- Eliminates the pain and discomfort caused by the deformity.
- Improves the physical appearance of the foot, since it once again has an aligned appearance with respect to the leg and the body.
- The longitudinal arch is recovered.
- Feet abduction is corrected.
- The progress of the deformity and its future consequences for the health of other areas of the body are avoided. It is worth mentioning that not all cases of flat feet requires surgery and it’s important to consult with a foot and ankle specialist to decide the best course of action for each patient.
Understanding the Risks and Side Effects
Flat feet surgery, like any surgical procedure, can have potential risks and side effects. However, it’s important to note that these occurrences are rare and infrequent. Any symptoms that do appear are typically expected to subside within 6-8 weeks after surgery. If any of the following symptoms appear, it’s recommended to see a doctor immediately:
- Nerve damage: Surgery can sometimes affect the nerves in the area, causing temporary loss of sensitivity that can take up to a year to recover.
- Damage to blood vessels: Damage to blood vessels can lead to circulatory impairment and tissue loss, with a reported incidence of 3 cases out of 9,000 surgeries over 10 years.
- Blood clots: The occurrence of blood clots can lead to deep vein thrombosis, which is dangerous and life-threatening if the clot travels to the lungs. The incidence of this problem is 0.9% of all surgeries.
- Bruising and bleeding: Bruising is normal and painful accumulation of blood at the surgery site, while excessive bleeding from the incision can indicate an infection.
- Infection: Poor hygiene or the presence of pathogens can cause infection in both soft tissue and bone, but can be cured if treated in time. Incidence is low, with 1 out of 83 patients for soft tissue and 3 out of 916 patients for bones.
- Chronic pain and lack of mobility: This can occur as a prolonged reaction of the nervous system to a minor incident and may not always have a remedy.
- Recurrence of the deformity or failure of surgery: In some cases, the surgery may not be successful and the deformity continues after the operation or may come back after a while.
- Prominent metalwork: The metal used to fuse the joint during surgery may feel prominent and may need to be removed after 6-12 months through a day surgical procedure or due to allergic reactions.
Anatomy of normal feet and flat feet
Flat feet, also known as pes planus, occur when the arch of the foot collapses, resulting in a lack of the normal arch in the foot. This is caused by a misalignment of the bones in the back of the foot, specifically the talus (ankle bone) and the calcaneus (heel bone). Normally, these bones are aligned and the front edge of the talus slightly overlaps the front edge of the calcaneus, creating the natural space known as the sinus tarsus, which forms the arch of the foot.
However, when the talus falls forward and out of line with the calcaneus, the sinus tarsi collapses and the arch falls, resulting in a flat foot appearance.
When is flat feet surgery necessary?
In general, flat feet surgery can be performed at any age, although it is not recommended in childhood, since at that age the bones and structures have not yet developed. Outside of this, there are no age limits to perform flat feet surgery. In fact, studies show that people over the age of 65 who have had flat feet surgery are just as successful as younger people. In general, those who:
- They have been diagnosed with flat feet that appears on an x-ray or similar study.
- They are in good general health to withstand general anesthesia.
- They have been treated with conservative or non-surgical methods and have not had the expected results.
- They feel constant pain and many difficulties in walking caused by flat feet.
- They have lost the ability to perform various activities as a result of flat feet.
- They have a developing deformity that is becoming more apparent.
- They experience swelling in the ankles.
- They show damage to the nerves of the feet on the inside of the ankle, which causes numbness or tingling.
It is important to get an early diagnosis because if the deformity is not healed, the feet can lose flexibility and become more difficult to correct. This condition can cause great pain and also arthritis.
What can I expect after flat feet surgery?
After flat feet surgery, the feet will be numbed with a topical pain reliever. In addition, the patient may be prescribed a plan of oral pain relievers and anti-inflammatories for a few days. Patients will leave the hospital in a cast that will cover from their toes to their knees. It is necessary, and even essential, to use a wheelchair to move, during the first 6 weeks after the operation. This is because the success of the operation in the recovery stage will depend to a large extent on not supporting the weight of the body on the feet of the surgery.
Swelling can last up to 1-2 years, but it usually becomes fairly bearable after 6 months. Patients will be able to return to practicing low-impact sports after 6 to 12 months of recovery. Insoles or braces may be needed to help support your feet while it strengthens. Finally, after all the necessary recovery time, the patient will be able to use his feet normally.
Frequently Asked Questions
There are several tests that your doctor may perform to determine the type of flat feet deformity. Thanks to these tests, the surgeon will have the necessary information to determine which type of flat feet surgery is the most appropriate for the patient.
- Observe the mechanics of the feet : During the diagnosis, the doctor must observe the feet in front and behind. He will ask the patient to stand on their toes, so he can assess the strength of the ankles. The main pain area will also be identified. The doctor will also look at the pattern of wear.
- rays : X-rays create an image of the bones and joints in the feet, using very little radiation. This method helps to assess alignment and detect arthritis.
- Tomography : It consists of taking X-rays of the feet from different angles, so it helps to provide much more data than a normal X-ray.
- Ultrasounds : Ultrasound is usually performed when there is a suspicion that there is a tendon injury. It is performed by means of sound waves that generate images of the soft tissues inside the feet.
- Magnetic resonance : These are a type of images that are made with radio waves and a powerful magnet. They provide detailed information on the bones and soft tissues at the same time.
Flat feet surgery can be performed with the use of local or general anesthesia. This decision will depend on the type of procedure that needs to be performed. In addition, after surgery, a local analgesic is provided to avoid the sensation of postoperative pain. Some patients will be able to go home the same day, but others must remain hospitalized the night of the operation so that the medical staff can observe their evolution.
There is a follow-up appointment schedule for patients who have had flat feet surgery. As each operation evolves differently, the appointment schedule may vary from case to case. But in general, patients will have to make several visits to the doctor. However, if you have any doubts or unusual situations, you should go to the clinic immediately.
- First appointment (after the first 2 weeks of recovery): The wound is checked, the plaster with which you left the operating room is removed, and x-rays are taken to see the conditions of the feet. A new boot or cast is put on.
- Second appointment (in the sixth week of recovery): The second cast or boot is removed. An x-ray is taken to see the evolution of the feet. An insole or orthotic is provided to function as support in wearing the shoe.
- Third appointment (at 3 months of recovery): It is a follow-up and review appointment to verify how it is progressing.
- Last appointment (at 6 months of recovery): It is the last appointment, in which the doctor discharges the patient if everything has gone correctly.
There are a good number of non-surgical or conservative treatments to treat flat feet deformity. These treatments are focused on improving the painful symptoms of the deformity, as well as restoring the body’s normal anatomy through orthopedic devices, whenever possible.
a) Insoles or arch supports
These are simple devices that come with a built-in arch. They are installed inside the shoes and their function is to keep the arch up. This greatly alleviates the pain caused by flat feet when walking.
b) Orthoses
Orthoses are devices made to measure for each patient by orthopedic laboratories. They can be made to order or semi-to order. To send them to be made, the chiropodist or podiatrist must take the measurements and angles of the feet, for which he will perform a scan. The digitized scan will be the basis for making the orthosis. The result is a very comfortable device that helps fit the feet into the shoe and maintain the arch.
c) Anklets
Ankle braces help keep the feet in a neutral position when walking. Although they do not cure non-alignment, they can be used to better support the feet. They are very useful to put in the training shoes with laces.
d) Wear quality shoes with a firm heel cup
These types of shoes help control excess movement, and are very comfortable to wear when wearing orthoses.
d) Lose weight
Obesity is a risk factor for those with flat feet. Even obesity can be the direct cause of flat feet. Therefore, losing weight will help loosen up the muscles and make flat feet less painful. The more weight the feet carry, the more pain the flat feet will have.
f) Physiotherapy to strengthen and coordinate muscles
The physiotherapist will study each case individually, to understand the characteristics of the type of flat feet. Then he will provide a special exercise plan, which will include work with the main muscles of the thighs and buttocks. Techniques and activities recommended by the physical therapist can reduce impact and damage to the feet and ankle.
g) Pain management
Many of those who suffer from flat feet deformity resort to anti-inflammatories and pain relievers such as aspirin, ibuprofen and naproxen, to relieve the sensation of pain. Others also get local steroid or cortisone injections. These are placed directly into the arch tissue and reduce inflammation, swelling, and pain. Although pain management helps you feel better, it is not the most appropriate long-term solution, since taking too much medication can lead to various types of secondary problems.
h) Perform exercises
Performing exercises specific to flat feet (including exercises with devices) helps strengthen the feet and the muscles, tendons, and ligaments involved. This will decrease pain and discomfort when walking or doing any activity. However, the exercises by themselves will not be able to support the arch, once it has collapsed.
There are a good number of non-surgical or conservative treatments to treat flat feet deformity. These treatments are focused on improving the painful symptoms of the deformity, as well as restoring the body’s normal anatomy through orthopedic devices, whenever possible.
a) Insoles or arch supports
These are simple devices that come with a built-in arch. They are installed inside the shoes and their function is to keep the arch up. This greatly alleviates the pain caused by flat feet when walking.
b) Orthoses
Orthoses are devices made to measure for each patient by orthopedic laboratories. They can be made to order or semi-to order. To send them to be made, the chiropodist or podiatrist must take the measurements and angles of the feet, for which he will perform a scan. The digitized scan will be the basis for making the orthosis. The result is a very comfortable device that helps fit the feet into the shoe and maintain the arch.
c) Anklets
Ankle braces help keep the feet in a neutral position when walking. Although they do not cure non-alignment, they can be used to better support the feet. They are very useful to put in the training shoes with laces.
d) Wear quality shoes with a firm heel cup
These types of shoes help control excess movement, and are very comfortable to wear when wearing orthoses.
d) Lose weight
Obesity is a risk factor for those with flat feet. Even obesity can be the direct cause of flat feet. Therefore, losing weight will help loosen up the muscles and make flat feet less painful. The more weight the feet carry, the more pain the flat feet will have.
f) Physiotherapy to strengthen and coordinate muscles
The physiotherapist will study each case individually, to understand the characteristics of the type of flat feet. Then he will provide a special exercise plan, which will include work with the main muscles of the thighs and buttocks. Techniques and activities recommended by the physical therapist can reduce impact and damage to the feet and ankle.
g) Pain management
Many of those who suffer from flat feet deformity resort to anti-inflammatories and pain relievers such as aspirin, ibuprofen and naproxen, to relieve the sensation of pain. Others also get local steroid or cortisone injections. These are placed directly into the arch tissue and reduce inflammation, swelling, and pain. Although pain management helps you feel better, it is not the most appropriate long-term solution, since taking too much medication can lead to various types of secondary problems.
h) Perform exercises
Performing exercises specific to flat feet (including exercises with devices) helps strengthen the feet and the muscles, tendons, and ligaments involved. This will decrease pain and discomfort when walking or doing any activity. However, the exercises by themselves will not be able to support the arch, once it has collapsed.
Flat feet and valgus feet are two different foot conditions.
Flat feet is a condition where the arch of the foot collapses, causing the entire sole of the foot to come into contact with the ground. It can be caused by genetics, injury, or overuse and in most cases, it does not cause discomfort.
Valgus feet, on the other hand, is a condition where the foot turns outward at the ankle, causing the big toe to deviate towards the outside of the foot. It is also known as “duck feet” and it is considered a deformity. It can cause discomfort or pain, and it can require treatment or surgery. Valgus feet is also a risk factor for other problems.
Although after the first 2 weeks of recovery, patients can begin to support weight on their feet again, it is not yet the time to walk again. At this time, the use of crutches or walkers is recommended, so that the foot does not receive all the weight of the body. From weeks 6 to 12, patients will be able to start walking normally wearing shoes, but with insoles or some orthopedic device to help at this stage until the foot has strength again. After the first 12 weeks, the patient is expected to walk normally, although there may be some uncomfortable swelling. The latter can last up to 2 years.
After flat feet surgery, you cannot do any type of physical activity. You should rest, at least during the first 2 weeks, and keep your feet elevated. From week 6 you can start walking little by little. Until the 12th week of recovery, you cannot walk normally again or start doing all the normal activities with your feet.
A severe flatfeet valgus or acquired deformity is a source of problems for the rest of the body. This condition can cause the disruption of other body mechanisms, which in turn can lead to fasciitis, such as a bunion or knee arthritis. It also causes injuries and overloads in the muscles and tendons. This is why it is important to carry out a treatment to improve the conditions of the deformity. In most cases, conservative treatments such as the use of insoles and braces will work.
Yes, after flat feet surgery, the feet will once again have a normal and aligned appearance, without the deformity is evident. When standing, the weight of the body will be distributed evenly, and when walking, the foot will be aligned and balanced with respect to the body. They also improve flexibility and strength. All this helps the aesthetics of the feet and body posture.
It is important to disclose all medical history, so that the surgeon can assess whether the patient is suitable for flat feet surgery. It must be understood that the risk of a complication decreases when the patient and all the people involved in the operation and in the postoperative stage work together. That is why it is important to perform preoperative evaluation tests. Your doctor may recommend before the operation:
- Maintain a healthy diet to provide adequate nutrition during recovery.
- Quit smoking, as nicotine increases the risk of non-healing bones by 20%.
- Do not consume alcohol, because it can interact with the medications that are prescribed, in addition to the fact that it can impair the healing of wounds.
- Treatments for diseases, disorders or conditions affecting the feet and all associated structures.
In a first appointment with the flat feet specialist, a physical examination will be done that involves placing the feet in the positions that the doctor will indicate. In this way, the conditions of the deformity can be evaluated. Subsequently, imaging studies will be carried out that may involve: x-rays, ultrasound scans, tomographies, etc., with the aim of preparing a detailed description of the complexity of each case.
Another important step is for the doctor to know all the details of the patient’s health, to prevent possible postoperative risks and see if the patient is suitable for flat feet surgery. In case there are doubts about health, further investigations will be carried out with the participation of specialists in other medical areas. This allows the flat feet surgeon and healthcare team to perform the operation effectively and with as little risk as possible.
Not all people who suffer from it are candidates for flat feet surgery. In some cases, the balance leans more on the side of the complications than the benefits. In general, people who are not suitable for flat feet surgery are:
- Children who have not finished growing and have not yet fully developed their bones, muscles and joints.
- Adults with compromised health or who have a serious medical condition.
- Patients who have had unsuccessful foot surgeries on other occasions.
- People who do not tolerate anesthesia.
Not everyone with flat feet has discomfort or pain. The anatomy of these people has found a way to work well with deformity. However, a significant group of people with flat feet do feel pain. The pain is because when the joints collapse and exceed their normal range of motion, they begin to break down. The cause of this is that the ligaments are constantly being stretched, and the cartilage can end up wearing down. This causes the load to fall more on the muscles and also have to make a double effort to keep the joints together.
Likewise, all this affects the knee, which, being connected to the feet and depending on its position, tends to turn inward. Biomechanics is the science that studies how different forces work in the body. The inward-turned knee is overloaded, which can lead to further tissue and joint damage. Flat feet can also cause spinal misalignment, possibly leading to pain.
(1) “Adult acquired flatfoot.” American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. https://orthoinfo.aaos.org/en/diseases–conditions/adult-acquired-flatfoot. Accessed May 22, 2022.
(2) “Flexible flatfoot in children.” American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. https://orthoinfo.aaos.org/en/diseases–conditions/flexible-flatfoot-in-children. Accessed May 22, 2022.
(3) Fields KB. “Overview of foot anatomy and biomechanics and assessment of foot pain in adults.” https://www.uptodate.com/contents/search. Accessed May 22, 2022.
(4) Chorley J. “Forefoot and midfoot pain in the active child or skeletally immature adolescent: Overview of causes.” https://www.uptodate.com/contents/search. Accessed May 22, 2022.
(5) Bunion Surgery Miami. (n.d.). Flat Foot Surgery. Retrieved from https://bunionsurgerymiami.com/flat-foot-surgery/
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