High arched feet and flat feet are two conditions, both affecting the arch of the foot. Although both affect similar structures in the foot, they are opposite conditions. Mr Bajaj performs surgery for both of these.

High arched feet

High arched feet is when the arch of the foot is higher than normal. Typically, the foot looks less flat and more arched or curved.

It is normal for the foot to form an arch, but it becomes a problem if the foot cannot flatten at time (pronation).

If the foot cannot flatten, it means force cannot be absorbed as well when doing activities that involve walking, running or jumping. This can result in pain in the feet and legs and could lead to stress fractures.

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Flat feet

Flat feet, or collapsed arches, is when the arch of the foot is completely flattened, or significantly lower than normal, when the sole of the foot is completely flat against the floor.

People who have flat feet may experience foot pain, and fatigued in their feet and lower limbs.

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Having sugery

Having high arched or flat feet is not always a problem, and as children develop they may grow out of these conditions. However, in some cases, these conditions can contribute towards other foot and ankle problems, for example: plantar fascia pain, ankle sprains, and bunions & stress fractures.

Surgery is not usually required for these conditions, but is sometimes performed if non-operative treatments have been unsuccessful. In cases where muscles are not engaged properly, controlling the arch of the foot, non-operative treatment is encouraged.

The surgery often involves:

‍Osteotomy
This surgery involves cutting, reshaping & repositioning bones in the foot to help correct the arch.

‍Soft tissue release
Cutting or lengthening soft tissue, such as ligament or tendon, to optimise the structure and function of the foot.

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