Goals of Foot and Ankle Surgery
Foot and ankle surgery can provide substantial benefits including providing pain relief, increased stability and strength, and restoring function and mobility. Your surgeon will discuss more about the benefits of foot and ankle surgery at your visit. Our Podiatrists reserve surgery as a final option, and not the first option. Rest assured your questions, concerns, and ailments will be thoroughly addressed and the best treatment options for YOU will be recommended.
When You Might Need Foot and Ankle Surgery
You might need foot and ankle surgery because of a chronic condition affecting your joints, muscles, tendons, and ligaments. Rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, and diabetes are common chronic conditions that affect the feet and ankles. You may also need foot and ankle surgery to treat an acute condition including bunions, toenail fungus or an ingrown toenail, plantar fasciitis, and lateral ankle instability. If you experience trauma or an accident or injury involving your feet or ankles, foot and ankle surgery is often an excellent solution to restore full function.
Types of Foot and Ankle Surgery
Your podiatrist and foot and ankle surgeon can perform common surgeries, including:
- Joint repair or replacement
- Joint fusion
- Bone realignment
- Bunion removal
- Achilles tendon repair
- Achilles tendon release
- Ankle joint replacement
- Ankle joint fusion
What You Can Do for Foot and Ankle Problems
For mild foot and ankle problems, you can try:
- Applying ice to the area to decrease swelling
- Taking over-the-counter anti-inflammatory and pain medication
- Taping or bandaging the area to provide support and protection
- Resting to relieve pressure and stress on damaged areas
- Using crutches and other assistive devices to stand and walk
When To See Our Podiatrist
You should see your podiatrist if you have foot and ankle pain that doesn’t resolve, even after home treatments, or if the pain is getting worse. You should also see your podiatrist if you have chronic instability when standing or walking, or if your foot and ankle condition is affecting your quality of life and ability to stay active.
