Arch Problems
Covers two main conditions, Flat foot (Pes Planus) or High Arch (Pes Cavus)
How is it caused?
There is a normal variation of the arch of the mid-foot ranging from a flexible flat foot through to stiff high arched feet.
Some people are born with a tendency to problems with their arches. For others, they can develop symptoms over time. Most often patients can present in middle age, when the tissues become stiffer and for some patients, when they put on weight.
What are the symptoms?
How is it diagnosed?
Clinical examination and x-rays are the initial investigations. A formal biomechanical assessment and further imaging with CT and MRI are also often required.
How is it treated?
What can I do?
Keep fit and healthy and take regular exercise may be all that you need to do to maintain good foot health.
If you have altered or no sensation, it is imperative that you get your feet checked by an appropriately qualified specialist and that your feet are monitored regularly. If you are diabetic, your feet should be checked annually as part of a diabetic foot screening programme.
Non-Surgical Treatment
Insoles – A combination of bespoke insoles made by an orthotist or biomechanical podiatrist, to position your foot in the optimal position to allow your muscles tendons and ligaments to function at their best can often settle pain down quickly. Physiotherapy, specifically focusing on your arches can help to strengthen the soft tissues.
Surgical Options
Your foot and ankle need to be assessed to determine if the problem is due to only the soft tissues or a combination of both bony problems and soft tissues.
There is a wide range of procedures available to repair, reinforce, and reconstruct soft tissues, as well as tendon transfers.
Bony procedures can also be performed to reposition bones and joints to work more efficiently. Fusions (arthrodesis) can be performed when there is associated arthritis.
When can I expect to be back to normal after surgery?
In most cases you will be in and out for your surgery on the same day. Using supervised accelerated rehabilitation programmes, you should be able to resume your normal activities in 4-6 weeks.
