What is flatfoot?
If you have flatfoot, it means that the arch in the middle of your foot is lower than it should be. As a result, the whole of the bottom of your foot touches the ground when you stand or walk.
Some people have flatfoot because their arches didn't develop properly when they were children. Other people sustain injuries that cause flatfoot. Flatfoot can also develop because of the effects of the aging process.
Does flatfoot require treatment?
If you've grown up with flatfoot or you've developed flatfoot, but you don't suffer any pain or loss of function, you don't need to worry. Treatment is only necessary if flatfoot is causing you problems.
In some people, flatfoot leads to:
- Arch pain
- Aching feet
- Swollen ankles
Having flatfoot can also make you more likely to develop problems like arthritis or ankle pain. Flatfoot can create extra stress on your joints if there's significant misalignment.
How is flatfoot diagnosed and treated?
Dr. McConn can tell from a physical examination of your feet that you have flatfoot. He also needs to see how you walk and stand to assess the effect your flatfoot is having on the rest of your body. You might need to undergo diagnostic imaging tests like X-rays, a CT scan, or an MRI to rule out other problems with your feet.
After diagnosing flatfoot, Dr. McConn prescribes the most appropriate treatment, starting with conservative options such as:
Custom orthotics
Orthotics are inserts you put in your shoes. They correct the biomechanics of your feet to relieve pressure and reduce pain. You can get over-the-counter shoe inserts, but custom orthotics are more effective. They're designed specifically for your feet, with personalized adjustments to ensure optimal support.
Physical therapy
Physical therapy builds up strength in the muscles, tendons, and ligaments of your feet and ankles, helping compensate for the effects of having flatfoot. Gait analysis is also useful, showing you how you can change the way you move to relieve pressure on your feet and joints.
Would I need surgery for flatfoot?
Most people don't need to have surgery because of flatfoot. However, if your flatfoot is so severe that it's causing chronic pain and disability, surgery could be the best option.
Dr. McConn specializes in performing flatfoot reconstruction surgery in adults. Some of the procedures involved in this complex operation include:
Lateral column lengthening/Osteotomy
Also called an Evans procedure, it allows Dr. McConn to re-establish the arch and overall foot structure. This is performed with bone cuts, or osteotomies, of the calcaneus and midfoot bones. Sometimes, a tendon transfer is also needed depending on the severity of your flatfoot. Advanced imaging, such as MRI, allows Dr. McConn to recommend the needed procedures prior to surgery.
Arthrodesis
For late-stage flatfoot, which involves significant arthritis, Dr. McConn fuses one or more bones in your foot to reestablish your arch, provide pain relief, and improve overall functionality.
Your flatfoot reconstruction surgery could include some or all of these procedures and possibly others, depending on your individual requirements.
For more information on flatfoot, call Tim McConn, DPM, today or book an appointment online.
