Foot and ankle problems can significantly impact mobility, comfort, and overall quality of life. Conditions like flat feet and arthritis in the feet and ankles require expert evaluation and treatment to prevent long-term complications. For residents of McKinney, TX, consulting experienced orthopedic doctors in McKinney, TX, such as Dr. Eitan Ingall, MD, ensures precise diagnosis, advanced care, and personalized treatment plans tailored to each patient’s needs.

This blog provides an in-depth guide to flat foot reconstruction surgery, management of arthritis in feet and ankles, and tips for maintaining long-term foot health.

Understanding Flat Feet

What Are Flat Feet?

Flat feet, or pes planus, occur when the arches of the feet collapse, causing the entire sole to touch the ground. This can develop in childhood or adulthood and may be caused by genetic factors, injury, or tendon dysfunction.

Symptoms of Flat Feet

• Pain or aching in the foot, ankle, or lower leg
• Swelling along the inside of the ankle
• Difficulty standing on tiptoe
• Fatigue during walking or running
• Changes in gait leading to knee, hip, or back discomfort

While mild flat feet may not require treatment, severe cases can lead to pain, deformity, and functional limitations, often necessitating flat foot reconstruction surgery.

Flat Foot Reconstruction Surgery

What Is Flat Foot Reconstruction Surgery?

Flat foot reconstruction surgery is designed to restore the natural arch of the foot, improve alignment, and relieve pain. The procedure may involve:

• Tendon transfer or repair – Strengthening or repositioning tendons to support the arch.
  
• Osteotomy – Cutting and realigning bones to restore proper structure.
  
• Fusion (arthrodesis) – Fusing joints to stabilize the foot in severe cases.
  
• Implants or bone grafts – Supporting the reconstructed arch and joint function.
  

Benefits of Surgery

• Corrects deformity and improves foot alignment
  
• Reduces chronic pain and discomfort
  
• Enhances walking and balance
  
• Prevents progression of arthritis or other complications
  

Recovery After Surgery

Recovery depends on the procedure’s complexity, but generally includes:

• Immobilization with a cast or boot for 6-8 weeks
  
• Gradual weight-bearing guided by the orthopedic surgeon
  
• Physical therapy to restore strength, flexibility, and balance
  
• Regular follow-up visits to monitor healing
  

Arthritis in Feet and Ankles

Understanding Arthritis

Arthritis in the feet and ankles occurs when joint cartilage wears down, leading to inflammation, pain, and stiffness. Common types include:

• Osteoarthritis – Degenerative arthritis from wear and tear
  
• Post-traumatic arthritis – Arthritis that develops after injury or fracture
  
• Rheumatoid arthritis – an Autoimmune condition affecting joints
  

Symptoms of Foot and Ankle Arthritis

• Persistent pain, especially after activity
  
• Swelling and tenderness around the joint
  
• Stiffness and reduced range of motion
  
• Difficulty walking or standing for extended periods
  

Treatment Options for Arthritis in Feet and Ankles

Treatment varies depending on severity and patient needs, ranging from conservative care to surgical interventions.

Non-Surgical Treatments

• Medications – Anti-inflammatory drugs to reduce pain and swelling
  
• Orthotics and braces – Support joints and improve alignment
  
• Physical therapy – Strengthening muscles and improving flexibility
  
• Activity modification – Reducing high-impact activities that exacerbate symptoms
  
• Injections – Corticosteroids or hyaluronic acid for targeted relief
  

Surgical Treatments

• Arthroscopy – A Minimally invasive procedure to remove inflamed tissue and bone spurs
  
• Joint fusion (arthrodesis) – Fusing bones to relieve pain and stabilize the joint
  
• Joint replacement – Replacing damaged joints with artificial implants for mobility and pain relief
  

Consulting a fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeon like Dr. Eitan Ingall, MD, ensures access to advanced surgical techniques and individualized treatment plans for optimal outcomes.

Why Choose an Orthopedic Specialist in McKinney, TX

Selecting the right specialist is crucial for complex foot and ankle conditions. Dr. Eitan Ingall, MD, a leading orthopedic doctor in McKinney, TX, offers:

• Fellowship training in foot and ankle surgery
  
• Expertise in both surgical and non-surgical treatments
  
• Minimally invasive techniques for faster recovery
  
• Comprehensive care tailored to each patient’s needs
  
• Support through rehabilitation and long-term foot health management
  

With Dr. Ingall, patients receive not only advanced medical treatment but also personalized guidance to restore mobility, relieve pain, and improve quality of life.

Recovery and Rehabilitation

Recovery for foot and ankle procedures depends on the condition and type of treatment. General steps include:

• Immobilization – Using casts, boots, or splints to support healing
  
• Weight-bearing guidance – Gradual progression under medical supervision
  
• Physical therapy – Exercises to strengthen muscles, improve range of motion, and restore gait
  
• Follow-up visits – Regular monitoring to ensure proper healing and prevent complications
  

Patients who adhere to rehabilitation plans often experience faster recovery and better long-term outcomes.

Preventing Foot and Ankle Problems

While not all issues are preventable, steps to reduce the risk of flat feet or arthritis include:

• Wearing supportive, well-fitting footwear
  
• Maintaining a healthy weight to reduce joint stress
  
• Engaging in exercises that strengthen the foot and ankle muscles
  
• Avoiding high-impact activities that strain joints
  
• Seeking early care from an orthopedic specialist for pain or deformity
  

Regular check-ups with a foot and ankle expert in McKinney, TX, like Dr. Eitan Ingall, MD, can help detect problems early and implement effective preventive strategies.

FAQs

1. Who needs flat foot reconstruction surgery?
   Surgery is typically recommended for patients with severe flat feet that cause chronic pain, functional limitations, or progressive deformity despite non-surgical treatments.
2. How long is the recovery after flat foot reconstruction surgery?
   Recovery usually involves 6-8 weeks of immobilization followed by physical therapy. Full activity may take 3-6 months, depending on the procedure’s complexity.
3. Can arthritis in the feet and ankles be treated without surgery?
   Yes, many patients benefit from medications, orthotics, physical therapy, and injections. Surgery is reserved for cases where conservative care is insufficient.
4. What are the benefits of consulting an orthopedic doctor in McKinney, TX?
   Local orthopedic specialists provide personalized care, advanced diagnostics, surgical expertise, and ongoing follow-up, ensuring the best outcomes for foot and ankle conditions.
5. Is minimally invasive surgery an option for flat foot reconstruction or arthritis?
   In selected cases, minimally invasive techniques reduce tissue trauma, decrease pain, and accelerate recovery compared to traditional open surgery.

Conclusion

Flat feet and arthritis in the feet and ankles can limit mobility and quality of life, but effective treatment is available. Whether through flat foot reconstruction surgery, conservative arthritis care, or advanced surgical techniques, patients can regain comfort, function, and mobility with expert guidance.

For residents in McKinney, TX, Dr. Eitan Ingall, MD, a fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeon, offers comprehensive care for foot and ankle conditions. With personalized treatment plans, minimally invasive options, and compassionate guidance, Dr. Ingall helps patients restore foot health and maintain an active, pain-free lifestyle.