Flat Feet Treatment and Surgery
Treatment goals for flat feet
Starting treatment as soon as possible is very helpful for adult flat feet. However, treatment only becomes necessary when you feel pain or have reduced mobility.
At UPMC Orthopaedic Care, our treatment goals for flat feet aim to:
- Manage foot pain
- Preserve mobility
- Increase function in your feet
Nonsurgical treatments for flat feet
Orthopaedic experts at UPMC offer the following nonsurgical treatment options for flat feet:
- Rest to avoid bearing weight in the feet
- Anti-inflammatory pain medications
- Shoe adaptations (orthotics), braces, and arch supports for flat feet
These treatments can be very effective in managing pain and preserving both function and mobility in your feet.
Flat feet surgery
In some cases, doctors may recommend surgery to relieve the tension in your tissues and muscles that cause the arch to fall.
Flat feet surgery may be an attractive and effective treatment option when:
- Nonsurgical treatment options have proven ineffective.
- When flat feet occur along with other orthopaedic conditions of the foot or ankle.
Benefits and risks of flat feet treatment
Treatments for flat feet can be effective in preserving and even restoring function.
For this reason, be sure to tell your doctor about any acute or chronic pain you feel at the bottom of your feet and undergo proper testing.
Following any surgical treatments for flat feet, you will have to avoid all weight bearing activities for about three months.
Not following doctors' orders of this rest period can lead to further foot problems and complications.
Learn more about flat feet
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