Expert Foot & Ankle Treatment from Michigan’s #1 Podiatrist - Balance Foot & Ankle Specialist
Struggling With Flat Feet? Relief Starts Here.
Flat Foot Surgery: 7 Must-Know Facts Before You Decide
Flat foot pain can make daily movement difficult—causing discomfort, fatigue, and long-term joint issues. At Balance Foot & Ankle in Michigan, we specialize in diagnosing and treating flat feet, including surgical solutions when conservative treatments aren’t enough. If you’re considering flat foot surgery, it’s essential to understand what the procedure involves, when it’s necessary, and how recovery works. Here’s what you need to know before taking the next step.
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7 Crucial Facts About Flat Foot Surgery
Essential Insights from Michigan’s Trusted Foot Specialists at Balance Foot & Ankle
1. Not Every Flat Foot Needs Surgery
Surgery is typically recommended only when conservative treatments—like orthotics, physical therapy, or braces—fail to relieve chronic pain or functional problems. A proper diagnosis and treatment plan from a foot and ankle specialist is essential.
2. There Are Different Types of Flat Foot Surgery
Depending on the severity and cause of your flat feet, procedures may include tendon repairs, bone cuts (osteotomies), or joint fusions. Your podiatrist will select the best method for your specific foot structure and symptoms.
3. Recovery Takes Time
Most patients will need 6–12 weeks in a walking boot or cast, with full recovery extending to 6 months or more. Commitment to rest, physical therapy, and follow-up appointments is crucial for optimal healing.
4. You May Be Non-Weight Bearing for a While
After surgery, you may be required to avoid putting any weight on your foot for a few weeks. Crutches, knee scooters, or walkers can help during this time, so prepare your home and routine in advance.
5. Physical Therapy Is Key to a Successful Outcome
Post-operative rehabilitation isn’t optional—it’s part of the treatment. Physical therapy helps you regain strength, mobility, and balance, which reduces the risk of complications or recurrence.
6. Risks Are Low, but They Exist
As with any surgery, there are risks such as infection, nerve damage, or blood clots. Choosing an experienced podiatrist significantly lowers these risks and improves surgical outcomes.
7. Your Insurance May Cover It
Most insurance plans—including Medicare—cover flat foot surgery if it’s deemed medically necessary. Be sure to check with your provider and have your podiatrist’s office help with the preauthorization process.
Should you have minimally invasive flat foot surgery? Who should have surgery? How do orthotics play a role?
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![Do I NEED Flat Foot SURGERY? [Here's What You Need To Know]](https://i.ytimg.com/vi/EVK67GTijQA/maxresdefault.jpg "Do I NEED Flat Foot SURGERY? [Here's What You Need To Know] 2")
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When it comes to managing foot pain from conditions like plantar fasciitis, flat feet, or diabetic neuropathy, the best orthotics can offer crucial support and relief.
Choosing the best shoes for foot conditions like neuropathy, plantar fasciitis, or flat feet is essential for pain relief and long-term foot health.
Understanding Flat Foot and When Surgery Is Needed
Flat feet (also known as fallen arches) occur when the arch of your foot collapses, causing the entire sole to touch the ground. While many cases are manageable through orthotics and physical therapy, severe cases that cause chronic pain, instability, or tendon dysfunction may require surgical correction. Flat foot surgery can restore proper alignment and relieve long-term discomfort.
What to Expect During Flat Foot Surgery
Flat foot surgery typically involves procedures to realign bones, repair tendons, or fuse joints depending on your foot’s structure and severity of the condition. Our Michigan-based surgeons at Balance Foot & Ankle tailor the surgery plan to your specific diagnosis. The goal is to rebuild your arch and restore a more functional foot structure—ultimately improving mobility and quality of life.
Recovery, Results & Benefits
Recovery after flat foot surgery may take several weeks to months, depending on the procedures performed. Patients usually begin with a period of non-weight-bearing, followed by rehabilitation. While it requires patience, most people experience significant pain relief, improved balance, and better foot alignment. Our expert team in Michigan will guide you through every stage, from post-op care to physical therapy, ensuring the best outcome possible.
Flat Foot Surgery Services in Michigan
See why our podiatrists and foot doctors are the best rated in Howell and Bloomfield, Michigan.
General Foot Care
- Toenail Trimming
- Senior Toenail Cutting & Trimming Services
- Podiatrist Pedicure
- Medical Pedicure
- Trimming of Corns
- Trimming of Calluses & Treatment of Pressure Blisters
- Dry Skin, Eczema, and Athlete’s Foot Treatment
- Prescription Refills
Advanced Therapies & Injections
- Shockwave Therapy (ESWT)
- EPAT Therapy
- Cold Laser Therapy (In-Office)
- MLS Laser Therapy (Multi-Wave Locked System)
- Laser Treatment for Peripheral Neuropathy
- Foot & Ankle Injections (Steroid or Natural Solutions)
Orthotics & Shoe Fitting
- Custom Orthotics for Children and Adults (In-Office)
- Over-the-Counter Orthotics for Children and Adults
- Orthotics Fitting
- Extra-Depth Shoes for Diabetic Patients
- Diabetic Shoes
Diabetic Foot Care
Injury, Pain & Joint Conditions
- Management of Foot & Ankle Fractures (e.g., Walking Boots for Broken Toes/Feet)
- Heel Pain (Heel Spur / Plantar Fasciltis)
- Gout Treatment
Virtual Care & Convenience
Flat Foot Surgery: Frequently Asked Questions
It’s recommended when pain persists despite non-surgical treatments or if the foot becomes severely misaligned.
Procedures may include tendon transfers, bone realignment (osteotomy), or joint fusions depending on your case.
Recovery typically ranges from 6 weeks to several months, with physical therapy required in most cases.
Yes, patients typically use crutches or a boot for several weeks during the non-weight-bearing phase.
Most insurances cover the procedure if it’s deemed medically necessary. Balance Foot & Ankle can help verify your coverage.
Yes, though it’s usually done one foot at a time for easier mobility during recovery.
Surgery aims to reconstruct or support your arch, improving function and appearance.
Balance Foot & Ankle in Michigan offers personalized surgical solutions with advanced diagnostics and post-op care.
