Flat foot surgery

Surgery for fallen arches

If your flat feet (fallen arches) are causing pain and discomfort, our orthopaedic surgeons can help

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HCA UK Booking Line:

020 7079 4344

What are flat feet?

Flat feet are feet with low or no foot arches. They can cause pain in the feet, ankles and other areas. They can also lead to feet rolling inward too much (overpronation), which can result in injuries and shoes wearing out.

Most babies and toddlers have flat feet resulting from a combination of increased joint mobility and fat in their arches and can remain flat until the child is aged 4-5. In adulthood up to 20% of us have flat feet which is a normal variant. Most flat feet are flexible, meaning when you stand on your tip toes the arches recreate. If the arch does not recreate when you stand on tip toes, this is known as fixed flat foot and should be investigated.

Most cases of flat feet require reassurance only. Some patients will require insoles for their shoes but depending on your symptoms, your GP or consultant may recommend surgery.

Need to know

  • What happens during surgery for flat feet? icon plus

    Normally, flat feet are nothing to worry about. They only need to be treated if they cause pain or overpronation. Surgery is only considered if:

    • you or your child are very symptomatic and all other non operative methods have failed
    • if a tendon in your foot has failed (tibialis posterior dysfunction)
    • if you or your child's ifeet are rigid necessitating investigation with scans

    If surgery is carried out, it is usually under a general anaesthetic but your consultant will discuss your specific case in detail and be on hand to answer any questions.

  • How to prepare icon plus

    Your consultant will explain what happens during flat feet surgery to you and answer any questions you might have. Like all procedures, there may be some risks and side effects involved. Your consultant will explain these to you.

  • After surgery icon plus

    After having your flat foot surgery, we'll transfer you to one of our recovery wards where our team of nurses and physiotherapists will care for you. Your consultant will let you know when you can get back to your usual routine, including work or exercise.

Our foot and ankle consultants

We're proud to work with leading orthopaedic experts specialising in problems and conditions of the foot and ankle, and whose skills are matched by their integrity and compassion.

Our locations

From complex ankle surgery to straightforward foot procedures for children, we provide exceptional care across our network of hospitals, outpatient centres and specialist clinics.

Book a foot and ankle appointment

We're happy to help you make an appointment with one of our experienced foot and ankle consultants. We can also make imaging and outpatient physiotherapy appointments for you.

Call us today

020 7079 4344
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This content is intended for general information only and does not replace the need for personal advice from a qualified health professional.
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