Many people are told they have flat feet, or they notice their arches collapse and their feet roll inward when standing or walking. Often, they’re advised to wear orthotics or braces indefinitely — and sometimes even told there's no permanent fix.
But that’s no longer the case. Thanks to a breakthrough, minimally invasive procedure called EOTTS, there’s now a permanent solution that corrects the root cause of flat feet — without the need for major surgery.
Dr. Joel Foster, a double board-certified podiatric surgeon based in the Kansas City area, specializes in advanced treatments for flat feet and other foot and ankle conditions. He offers EOTTS as an effective, minimally invasive alternative to long-term bracing or traditional reconstructive surgery.
What Is EOTTS? A Minimally Invasive Solution for Flat Feet
EOTTS, or Extra-Osseous TaloTarsal Stabilization, is a minimally invasive procedure designed to restore natural foot alignment and arch support by stabilizing the rearfoot.
How It Works:
The procedure involves placing a small titanium stent into a naturally occurring space in the foot known as the sinus tarsi, located between the talus (ankle bone) and calcaneus (heel bone).
This stent acts as a spacer that prevents the talus from shifting forward and downward — the root cause of a collapsed arch — while still allowing normal foot movement. As a result, patients experience improved foot alignment, better arch support, and reduced strain on muscles, tendons, and ligaments.
Importantly, the procedure does not involve cutting bone, transferring tendons, or using screws. It's a straightforward correction performed through a very small incision.
EOTTS vs. Other Flat Foot Treatments
Many flat foot treatments either provide temporary relief or require invasive surgery. Here’s how EOTTS compares:
1. Orthotics & Bracing
These non-surgical options are widely used but have limitations:
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Not wearable all the time (e.g., barefoot at home, at the beach, or in the shower)
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Do not address the underlying structural problem
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Once removed, the arch typically collapses again
2. Traditional Reconstructive Surgery
Involves cutting or fusing bones, transferring tendons, and inserting screws or hardware.
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Longer recovery periods
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Greater risk of complications
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More invasive and expensive
3. EOTTS Procedure
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Minimally invasive, performed through a 1–2 cm incision
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Done under local anesthetic — no general anesthesia needed
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Patients can walk immediately after the procedure
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Minimal downtime and discomfort
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No bone cutting or tendon disruption
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Cost-effective at only $2,950 per foot
Performed Right in the Office
Dr. Foster performs the EOTTS procedure in-office under local anesthetic. Using a single injection, the area is numbed and the stent is inserted with precision and care. The incision is small, and most patients are able to walk out of the office shortly after the procedure is completed.
Is EOTTS Right for You?
If you or someone you love is dealing with flat feet and looking for a long-term solution that avoids braces and major surgery, EOTTS may be the ideal answer. This simple yet highly effective treatment has helped many patients walk pain-free, regain their arch, and avoid years of chronic stress on their feet and joints. Contact us online or call our Lee's Summit office directly at 816.246.4222 to schedule an appointment. We are proud to help people from throughout the Kansas City area and look forward to helping you.