Recent studies show that more than 75% of all Canadians will experience problems with their feet at some point in their lives. One of the most common foot health issues comes from flat foot pain. Doctors report that around 6% of Canadians will suffer from flat feet each year. If you’re feeling the pain of flat foot problems, there are some important facts you need to know before considering flat foot surgery.
What is Flat Foot?
The term “flat foot” is used to describe a collapsed arch. Pain from flat foot problems originates from two types of collapsed arch. Flexible flat foot occurs when the arch has collapsed, but still retains the shape of the arch when no weight is placed on the foot. Flexible flat foot pain is generally minor, and the foot maintains range of motion.
Those suffering from rigid flat foot tend to have more pain and less movement. Sometimes referred to as stiff foot, rigid flat foot stays in the straight position even when there is no pressure placed on the foot. This type of foot pain can be quiet severe. Sufferers of rigid flat foot tend to be the best candidates for flat foot surgery.
What Causes Flat Foot Problems?
There are several causes of collapsed arch, and the type of flatfoot generally dictates the best treatment for the pain. Many of the symptoms of flat feet are caused by genetic issues such as tendon misplacement and arthritis. Diabetes can also cause flat foot problems. One of the most common causes of rigid flat feet is called tarsal coalition, which is a genetic condition causing the bones in the back parts of the foot to fuse and lock together.
One of the most common causes of collapsed arch is diabetes. Called diabetic collapse, this can be a more severe case of flat foot, due to the numbing of the nerves in feet and legs that come hand in hand with the disease. The severity of the arch collapse is masked by a lack of symptoms, and once the condition has progressed so far, it is very difficult to treat with flat foot surgery. Diabetics can instead have surgery to lengthen the Achilles tendon, also called Achilles tendon repair.
How Can Collapse Arches be Treated Without Flat Foot Surgery?
Flat feet can be corrected without resorting to flat foot surgery. The earlier treatment is implemented, the more likely non-surgical choices will be successful in easing the pain. Nonsurgical treatments that are generally recommended by a local podiatrist include rest and immobilization. While not the most convenient treatment, bedrest can help the collapsed arch heal and is the first line of treatment recommended.
Other types of treatment that don’t involve flat foot surgery include ice therapy, anti-inflammatories, flat foot insoles, flat feet orthotics, and cortisone injections. Physical therapy has also shown to be effective in dealing with the pain of collapsed arches.
The most important step is to find a podiatrist and seek treatment sooner, rather than later. The earlier flat foot treatment is implemented, the better the outcome without having to resort to flat foot surgery.