Everything You’ll Need To Know: Flat Foot Reconstructive Surgery
Understanding Flat Foot Reconstructive Surgery
If you’re suffering with flat feet or other conditions that are causing deformity and pain in your feet, then reconstructive surgery may be a good option for long-term relief. With reconstructive surgery, one can go beyond just alleviating their symptoms to fixing the underlying problem at its source. While there are a number of solutions available, no one approach provides a total s answer to the flat foot syndrome and reconstructive surgery must be individually mapped out..
At Northern Ankle Foot Associates, we offer a wide range of reconstructive surgeries, each tailored to your individual needs. To determine which procedure is right for you, our team will evaluate the severity of your condition and discuss any potential risks or complications associated with treatment. However, it is necessary to know what kind of procedure is being performed, as it will have a pretty big impact on the results.
What Is Flat Foot Disability?
Flat feet are a common foot problem in which the arch of the foot is lower than usual. This means that the entire sole of the foot touches the ground. This condition can lead to pain in the feet, ankles, and lower leg areas when standing, walking, or running. Flat feet can affect anyone, from children to adults, and can be caused by many factors, including genetics, injury, or certain medical conditions.
In some instances, flat feet may not have any obvious symptoms. However, for others, the condition can result in significant discomfort and impact their daily activities. Walking or standing for extended periods can become difficult, and higher levels of activity can lead to leg or foot pain, swelling, and fatigue. This is where reconstructive surgery can provide long-term relief for sufferers of flat feet, as it goes beyond just alleviating the symptoms and fixes the underlying problem at its source.
Types Of Flat Foot Disorder
There are a few main types of flat foot disorder, each requiring a different course of treatment.
Flexible
Flexible flatfoot is the most common type of flatfoot disorder. It occurs when there is stretching and weakening of the foot muscles and ligaments. This type of flatfoot is typically painless and doesn’t require surgical intervention. However, if the condition results in discomfort or difficulty with daily activities, reconstructive surgery can prove to be an effective treatment option.
Acquired
Acquired flat foot, also referred to as a fallen arch, is a type of flat foot that is caused by the weakening or stretching of the posterior tibial tendon in the ankle. This crucial tendon is responsible for supporting the arch of the foot and providing stability to the foot during physical activities such as walking or running. When the posterior tibial tendon is compromised, it fails to fulfill its function, and the arch of the foot collapses, causing the entire sole of the foot to make contact with the ground.
Congenital
Congenital flat feet are a type of flat foot that develops at birth and is typically the result of the longitudinal arches of the foot flattening. Symptoms may include pain in the ankle, arch, heel, and toes; difficulty standing on one leg; and swelling at the sides of the feet. Congenital flatfoot can be treated with reconstructive surgery as well as with more conservative treatment measures such as arch supports and physical therapy.
Common Symptoms And Causes Of Flat Foot Disorder
Symptoms
There are various symptoms of flat feet, which may include:
- Pain and burning in the arch, heel, and toes
- Difficulty standing on one leg
- Swelling in the sides of the feet
- An inward curve of the ankle joint; and a flattened arch
Leg cramps may also be occurring frequently due to flat feet, but this may not always be the case. If the disorder is not treated early, it may lead to various other problems like knee pain, back pain, shin splints, tendonitis, and arthritis.
Causes
Flat foot also has its causes. The most common cause of flat feet is an inherited structural abnormality of the foot, which leads to a weakening of the connective tissues in the foot. Other potential causes include rheumatoilogic diseases, obesity, medical conditions such as ligamentous laxity, arthritis and diabetes, and diseases such as lupus or cerebral palsy. Injury or trauma to the foot can also lead to flat feet.
Common Flat Foot Reconstructive Surgeries
Flat feet are often treated with reconstructive surgery, which helps rebuild the foot’s structures and relieves pain and discomfort. The surgical procedure can vary depending on the type of flat foot disorder.
Arthrodesis
Arthrodesis is a type of flatfoot reconstructive surgery that involves fusing two or more bones together to create a joint. Most of the time, this surgery is done on people with rheumatoid arthritis or other severe joint diseases, because it helps relieve the pain and discomfort caused by flat feet.
During the arthrodesis surgical procedure, the surgeon will remove the damaged cartilage from the affected joint and then use screws, plates, or rods to hold the bones in place. The fusion process could take weeks or months to finish, and during that time, the patient will have to wear a brace to keep the affected foot from moving.
While arthrodesis is a highly successful surgical technique, it is not without its risks. Potential complications of the procedure may include infection, nerve damage, reduced flexibility in the joint, and the need for additional surgery.
Osteotomy
Osteotomy surgery is a way to realign the bones in the foot and put them back where they should be. During this procedure, the surgeon will make cuts in the bone and then use plates or screws to secure them in place until healing occurs. Osteotomies are often suggested for people who have flat feet because of tendon damage or an injury.
As with any surgery, osteotomies carry certain risks, including infection, nerve damage, and stiffness in the ankle joint. Additionally, some patients may require additional surgeries to achieve the desired results.
Soft Tissue Reconstruction
Soft tissue reconstruction is a type of flat foot reconstructive surgery that is used to repair the tendons and ligaments in the foot. Patients with flat feet caused by things like tendonitis or rheumatoid arthritis may be told to have this procedure done.
During the soft tissue reconstruction surgical procedure, the surgeon will make incisions in the foot and then use sutures to anchor the damaged tendons and ligaments in place. Most of the time, the patient will need to wear a cast or brace for a few weeks after surgery to make sure they heal well.
Infection, nerve damage, stiffness, and instability of the ankle joint are all possible risks of soft tissue reconstruction. Additionally, some patients may require additional surgeries to achieve the desired results.
What To Expect Before The Surgery
Prior to undergoing flat foot reconstructive surgery, your doctor will determine the best type of procedure for you and give you an overview of what to expect during the procedure.
Tests
Before undergoing flat foot reconstructive surgery, it is essential to undergo various imaging tests, such as X-rays, to examine the extent of the damage and determine the best course of action for the procedure. You can receive comprehensive consulting services and access to various image tests to get a detailed assessment of your condition before the surgery.
These tests are crucial, as they help the surgeon identify the specific structures that need repair or alteration to restore the natural arch of the foot. These tests also reveal any underlying medical conditions that may complicate the procedure, such as arthritis or diabetes.
At Northern Ankle, we use advanced care technology to create detailed images of the bones, tendons, and ligaments in the foot, allowing the surgeon to plan and execute the surgery with precision.
Medication
Your doctor may also recommend that you take certain medications prior to the surgery, such as antibiotics or pain relievers. Additionally, your doctor will provide instructions on how to care for yourself after the procedure. This may include instructions on foot care and how to use crutches or a cane if needed.
Post Operative Care And Recovery
After the procedure, your doctor will provide specific instructions on how to care for yourself during recovery. This may include:
Physiotherapy
Doctors may recommend a physiotherapist or some exercises that should be followed properly in order to speed up the recovery. Physiotherapists would also help with some exercises that would result in treatment rather than medications for treatment. It is also considered to be much more effective than medications sometimes.
Restrictions
After the surgery, there are some limitations and restrictions that should be followed strictly. For instance, generally, it is not common to walk or put pressure on the foot six weeks after the treatment. Not following these can result in more pain and issues for the patient.
Assistive Devices
The patient may need to use some assistive devices, such as crutches or a wheelchair, for the first few weeks after surgery until the foot is healed and strong enough to bear their weight. Follow-up visits with your doctor may also be necessary to ensure that your recovery is going according to plan.
Advantages And Disadvantages Of The Procedure
As with any other surgery, this one also has pros and cons.
Advantages
The most important benefit of reconstruction for flat feet is that the natural arch of the foot is brought back. This can make a big difference in a patient’s quality of life by making it easier for them to walk and keep their balance, reducing their pain and discomfort, and making it easier for them to do physical activities.
Along with the physical benefits, the procedure can also have positive psychological effects. Patients who have suffered from chronic foot pain due to flat feet may experience an improvement in their overall mood and well-being after the surgery.
Disadvantages
Flatfoot reconstructive surgery is a complex and invasive procedure. As with any other surgical procedure, there are risks associated with the surgery, including infection, nerve injury, and delayed healing. As well as, the recovery time after the procedure can be lengthy and uncomfortable.
Get The Right Treatment With Northern Ankle Foot Associates
At Northern Ankle Foot Associate we hope to give people with flat feet the best surgical techniques and care after surgery. Our experienced podiatric surgeon offers a comprehensive approach to flat foot reconstruction that ensures the best possible outcomes for patients. If you are facing any pain or discomfort due to flat feet, request an appointment today to learn more about your treatment options. Get back on your feet soon!
