Studies suggest that nearly 20-30% of the population experiences some degree of flat foot, also known as fallen arches. This condition can lead to discomfort or mobility issues when left untreated, impacting your quality of life. If you’ve been searching for effective solutions to manage flat feet, understanding your treatment options is key.
At Martin Foot & Ankle, we’re proud to be a trusted expert in foot and ankle care across Pennsylvania. Our team provides personalized treatment, from advanced non-surgical options to state-of-the-art reconstruction. If flat feet are causing pain or disrupting your life, we’re here to help. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and take the first step toward better foot health.
Keep reading to learn more about the difference between flat foot reconstruction and non-surgical treatments and discover which option may be best for you.
Overview of Flatfoot
Flatfoot, also known as fallen arches or pes planus, occurs when the foot's arch is either low or absent, causing the entire sole to make contact with the ground. This common condition can result from hereditary factors, early childhood development, injury, or age-related changes that weaken the tendons and ligaments supporting the arch, such as the spring ligament. Flatfoot can be classified into rigid flat feet or flexible flat feet, where the arch disappears when standing but reappears when sitting or on tiptoes.
Symptoms may include foot pain, lower leg pain, heel discomfort, or even complications like arthritis or blood clots. If left untreated, flatfoot can lead to significant pain, foot deformity, and mobility challenges, impacting daily activities like walking and standing and reducing overall quality of life.
Conservative Treatments
Non-surgical Options For Managing Flatfoot or Fallen Arches
- Orthotics: Custom shoe inserts provide support for the foot's arch, align flat arches, and relieve pain.
- Physical Therapy: Stretching exercises and strengthening routines prescribed by a physical therapist can help develop arches, improve flexibility, and reduce discomfort.
- Lifestyle Changes: Wearing supportive shoes, resting, adjusting daily activities, and using arch supports can reduce strain and prevent more severe cases of flatfoot.
Conservative treatments, or nonsurgical treatments, offer several advantages for managing flexible flatfoot or mild deformity. They are non-invasive, avoiding the risks associated with surgery or general anesthesia. These methods, like orthotics and physical therapy, are also highly customizable, addressing individual needs and symptoms for optimal results. Lifestyle changes such as rest, wearing proper shoes, and incorporating pain relievers are cost-effective and promote long-term foot health while minimizing discomfort.
Even in severe cases, these treatments can provide temporary relief or delay the need for surgical intervention. A physical exam or X-ray can help determine the effectiveness and guide the correct course of action.
When Surgical Correction Is the Better Option
Scenarios for Surgical Intervention
Surgical treatment may be recommended in the following situations:
- Severe pain and foot deformity persist despite trying conservative treatments like orthotics, stretching exercises, or rest.
- Significant pain limits walking or standing, affecting everyday activities.
- Structural deformities in rigid flat feet or damage to the foot require corrective surgery to restore alignment and alleviate discomfort.
- Possible complications, such as arthritis or issues on the inner side of the foot develop, leading to higher risk if untreated.
Flatfoot Surgery Procedures at Martin Foot & Ankle
At Martin Foot & Ankle, we specialize in advanced procedures for correcting flat arches, including:
- Tendon Repair and Lengthening – Restoring balance and correcting deformity by repairing or transferring damaged tendons, such as tendon transfers involving the posterior tibial tendon.
- Joint Fusion – Stabilizing deformities or correcting arthritis through joint fusion techniques.
- Bone Realignment (Osteotomy) – Adjusting bone position for better foot structure and functionality in more severe cases.
- Soft Tissue Reinforcement – Strengthening ligaments and tendons, like the spring ligament, to maintain normal arches and stability.
Our specialized team provides personalized care tailored to each patient's needs, ensuring the best outcomes for relieving pain and improving mobility. For severe cases, surgical intervention offers a lasting solution to correct flatfoot, improve walking and standing, and reduce the risk of further complications. Whether addressing flexible flatfoot or more rigid deformities, we ensure every step of the process supports your journey to better foot health.
Take the Next Step Toward Pain-Free Living
Flatfoot can be effectively managed with the right treatment plan, whether through conservative care or advanced surgical procedures. At Martin Foot & Ankle, we’re here to guide you toward the best solution for your foot health.
Schedule an appointment with our highly trained specialists today to explore your options for flat foot treatment in Lancaster, PA. We offer personalized care and advanced techniques to help you get back on your feet confidently!
