Flat Feet Symptoms, Causes & Treatment Options - SLUCare Orthopedic Surgery

Summary

This video discusses flatfoot, a condition characterized by the loss of the medial longitudinal arch, leading to potential pain in the foot and ankle. The speaker explains that flatfoot can develop gradually, often exacerbated by tight calf muscles and stress on the Achilles tendon. Treatment is typically conservative, focusing on orthotics, physical therapy, and injections for symptomatic relief. Surgery is considered for persistent pain, with options varying based on foot flexibility and arthritis presence. The video highlights that most patients find relief with non-operative methods, emphasizing the importance of individualized treatment plans.

Takeaways

• 😀 Flatfoot is defined as the loss of the medial longitudinal arch of the foot, leading to a flatter appearance.
• 🤔 Symptoms of flatfoot can include arch pain, ankle pain, and outward drifting of the toes while walking.
• 📈 The progression of flatfoot is gradual, often taking months to years to develop, unless caused by a traumatic injury.
• 👟 Non-operative treatments for flatfoot include the use of orthotics, physical therapy, and, in some cases, injections.
• 🏋️‍♂️ Physical therapy aims to stretch the calf muscle and strengthen the tendons and ligaments supporting the arch.
• 🔍 Surgery is considered for about 30% of patients who do not respond to conservative treatments.
• ⚖️ The decision for surgery depends on the patient's symptoms, the flexibility of the foot, and the presence of arthritis.
• 🦴 Joint-sparing surgical options can include osteotomies, tendon transfers, and calf muscle lengthening.
• 🔗 In more severe cases, arthrodesis (fusion surgery) may be recommended to stabilize the arch.
• 🗓️ Regular follow-up is essential to monitor the progression of flatfoot and adjust treatment plans as needed.

Q & A

What is flatfoot?

Flatfoot is a condition characterized by the loss of the medial longitudinal arch of the foot, leading to the arch collapsing.

What symptoms might indicate a problem with flatfoot?

Symptoms include pain on the inside of the foot, arch pain, and discomfort around the ankle, as well as outward drifting of the toes.

How does the progression of flatfoot typically occur?

The progression of flatfoot takes months to years and may not be noticeable without a traumatic injury. The arch may progressively collapse over time.

When is treatment for flatfoot generally considered?

Treatment is typically reserved for patients experiencing symptoms like pain or functional issues. If asymptomatic, no treatment is usually necessary.

What are some common non-operative treatments for flatfoot?

Common non-operative treatments include orthotics, physical therapy to stretch the calf muscle, and sometimes injections, although injections into tendons are approached with caution.

What percentage of flatfoot patients may require surgery?

About 30% of patients may eventually require surgery, especially if conservative treatments fail over time.

What factors influence the decision to perform surgery for flatfoot?

Factors include the flexibility of the foot, the presence of arthritis, and the degree of pain experienced by the patient.

What are the different surgical options available for flatfoot?

Surgical options vary from joint-sparing procedures like osteotomies and tendon transfers to arthrodesis (fusion) if the foot is rigid or has significant arthritis.

How does a tight calf muscle contribute to flatfoot?

A tight calf muscle increases tension across the Achilles tendon, leading to excess stress on the arch, which can eventually cause it to collapse.

What is the typical management strategy for flatfoot in a clinical setting?

The management strategy typically starts with conservative treatments, and if these do not alleviate symptoms, surgical options are discussed based on the patient's condition.