Flat foot is a common postural deformity that affects the arch of an individual’s foot. It is caused by a collapse in the arch that brings the sole of the foot into complete or near-complete contact with the ground. This collapse can be present at birth, or it can develop over the lifetime of an s. The deformity is estimated to affect 20-30% of the general population and does not generally pose significant lifestyle problems. However, in cases where the deformity is so severe that it does have a significant lifestyle impact, either due to poor posture or persistieren pain, flat feet surgery becomes an option.
The surgery depends on upon the severity of the deformity, and whether it is accompanied by associated arthritic problems. If the patient does not suffer from arthritis, and the deformity is correctable, flat feet surgery can take place. The surgery involves cutting various bones in the foot, realigning them and subsequent tendon transfers to maintain the newly created arch. The surgery is both painful and invasive, typical requiring a three month recovery period. As such, both feet are rarely operated on at the same time. If surgery on both feet is required, the doctor will assess the patient’s options after the first foot has completely healed.