What is flatfoot?
Many people suffer from various forms of flatfoot, a physical deformity where there is an absence of the arch that runs from the heel of the foot to the toes. The most common symptom of flatfoot is pain associated with joint stiffness and arthritis. Years of walking with flat feet can cause subsequent problems with the ankles, knees, hips and back.
Treatment
Treatment of sympotomatic flatfoot depends on the severity of the condition. Mild cases can be treated with supportive shoes and orthotics. The additional support provided by the use of orthotic devices will not correct the condition but may provide temporary relief.
Severe cases may need to be treated surgically. There are several types of procedures that are being used to correct severe flatfoot. Dr. Marcus will carefully consider all options before choosing the treatment that is most suitable. Procedures may also include reconstruction of bone, tendons or ligaments that may be contributing to the condition.These procedures reconstruct the foot and aid to improved function. They involve a combination of surgical procedures that realign the bony architecture of the foot and allow the weakened tendons to function in a more efficient fashion. More common surgical procedures for treatment of this condition are - the medial calcaneal displacement osteotomy, flexor digitorum longus tendon transfer, cotton procedure, Evans osteotomy and achilles tendon lengthening. Another surgical options that is the use of an arthroeresis procedure-as descirbed below
Subtalar MBA Surgical Option
One surgical option that has become the treatment of choice is the Subtalar MBA implant. The Subtalar MBA implant is a small titanium device that is inserted into the foot preventing the collapse of the arch. It is like an "internal orthotic." The procedure is usually performed as a brief outpatient surgery. This implant allows normal function of the joint -however it limits excessive pronation ( turning in of the foot). This procedure is often combined with other procedures inorder to realign the foot.
