Is Flat Foot Surgery Right for You? Symptoms, Diagnosis & Solutions

Flat foot, or plantar pes planus or fallen arches, is a condition in which the arch of the foot collapses, resulting in most or all the sole of the foot being in contact with the ground. In children, the arch persists when on tiptoes or sitting (flexible flat foot), but in adults, even when unloading the foot, the arch persists (rigid flat foot). Flat foot surgery deformity is a severe measure when conservative measures—orthotics, physiotherapy, rest—are of no relief.

When Surgery Is Helpful

• Pain continues despite rest, physiotherapy, and orthotics
• The arch is flat when bearing weight (“too-many-toes” sign)
• Fatigue, tripping, or imbalance affects daily activity

Recognizing the Surgical Options

Prospero Medical provides three established surgical approaches:

• Arthroereisis (Calcaneo‑stop) This is a minimally invasive procedure wherein a small implant (usually in the sinus tarsi) guides the realignment and stabilizes the subtalar joint to reduce over-pronation. Recovery is rapid, with most patients walking again shortly afterwards.
  
• Osteotomies More advanced osteotomies are usually performed on adult bones, with the calcaneus or medial cuneiform being precisely cut and reoriented for an accurate correction. Soft-tissue procedures may also be combined for an optimized effect, such as lengthening of the Achilles tendon.
  
• Arthrodesis (Joint Fusion) Reserved for flat foot deformities that are severe or stiff, where joint fusion offers long-term stability when other options would not work. Read more.