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Foot and Ankle Surgery

Foot and ankle surgery is a specialized field aimed at treating various conditions and injuries affecting the lower extremities, such as fractures, tendon tears, arthritis, and deformities like bunions. Surgery is typically recommended when non-surgical treatments have failed to relieve symptoms, though acute conditions like fractures may require immediate intervention.

Surgical procedures may involve realigning bones, repairing ligaments, fusing joints, or replacing the ankle joint entirely in cases of severe arthritis. The primary goal is to restore mobility, reduce pain, and prevent further complications, helping patients regain their ability to walk comfortably and perform daily activities without restriction.

Causes

Foot and ankle conditions requiring surgical intervention can arise from a variety of causes, including:

Traumatic Injuries:
Fractures, dislocations, and ligament tears caused by accidents or sports activities.
Degenerative Conditions:
Osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis leading to joint damage and chronic pain.
Structural Deformities:
Bunions, flat feet, and hammertoes that alter the natural alignment of the foot.
Tendon or Ligament Injuries:
Ruptures of the Achilles or posterior tibialis tendons due to overuse or sudden trauma.
Nerve Compression Disorders:
Conditions like tarsal tunnel syndrome causing pain and numbness.
Inflammatory Conditions:
Chronic inflammation such as tendonitis or plantar fasciitis.
Congenital Issues:
Birth defects or abnormalities in foot structure.

Symptoms

The symptoms of foot and ankle conditions that may necessitate surgery include:

Persistent Pain: Localized pain in the ankle, foot, or toes that interferes with movement.

Swelling or Inflammation: Chronic swelling that does not subside with rest or medication.

Deformity: Visible misalignment or enlargement, such as bunions or collapsed arches.

Instability: A sensation of weakness or instability, particularly in the ankle, affecting balance.

Restricted Range of Motion: Difficulty in moving the foot or ankle due to stiffness or joint fusion.

Numbness or Tingling: Indicative of nerve compression or damage.

Difficulty Walking or Bearing Weight: Reduced mobility or pain while walking or standing.

Diagnosis

Accurate diagnosis is essential to determine the appropriate treatment plan. Diagnostic steps include:

Physical Examination: Assessing joint movement, pain, and deformities.

Imaging Tests: X-rays, MRI, or CT scans to identify fractures, joint issues, or soft tissue damage.

Ultrasound: To detect tendon injuries or inflammation in soft tissues.

Blood Tests: Used to identify arthritis or inflammatory conditions.

Gait Analysis: Evaluates walking patterns to identify biomechanical issues.

Nerve Conduction Studies: To assess nerve function in cases involving numbness or tingling.

Treatment

Treatment for foot and ankle conditions can vary based on the severity of the problem. Surgery is considered when conservative measures like medication, physical therapy, or orthotics have not provided relief. Common surgical procedures include:

Ankle Replacement Surgery:

  • Recommended for severe arthritis to replace the damaged joint with a prosthetic implant.

  • Helps restore mobility and reduce chronic pain in the ankle joint.

Ankle Fusion (Arthrodesis):

  • Fuses the bones of the ankle joint to eliminate pain caused by arthritis.

  • Recommended when joint replacement is not suitable due to bone health or age.

Posterior Tibialis Tendon Surgery:

  • Corrects tendon damage that causes flatfoot deformity or instability.

  • Involves tendon transfer or repair, depending on the severity of the injury.

Lateral Ankle Ligament Reconstruction:

  • Restores stability to the ankle by reconstructing torn ligaments.

  • Typically performed on individuals with chronic ankle instability or repeated sprains.

Achilles Tendon Repair Surgery:

  • Repairs ruptured or torn Achilles tendons caused by trauma or overuse.

  • Helps restore full strength and function to the lower leg.

Bunion Surgery:

  • Realigns the bones and tissues around the big toe to correct bunion deformity.

  • Reduces pain and restores normal foot shape for improved mobility.

Recovery and Rehabilitation

Recovery after foot and ankle surgery depends on the type of procedure performed and the patient’s overall health. Key aspects of rehabilitation include:

Physical Therapy:
Restores strength, flexibility, and range of motion.
Pain Management:
Use of medications to control pain during the recovery period.
Immobilization:
Casting, splinting, or bracing to protect the surgical site and promote healing.
Gradual Weight-Bearing:
Patients may use crutches or a walker initially, with a gradual return to full weight-bearing activities.
Follow-Up Care:
Regular check-ups to monitor healing and address any complications.

Conclusion

Foot and ankle surgery offers a pathway to pain relief, improved mobility, and enhanced quality of life for patients suffering from chronic conditions or traumatic injuries. By leveraging advanced surgical techniques, our specialized team aims to provide personalized care for each patient.

If you are experiencing persistent pain, deformities, or mobility challenges, consulting with a foot and ankle specialist can help determine the most effective treatment plan. Early intervention is essential to prevent further complications and ensure a successful recovery.

Take the first step towards pain-free movement - schedule a consultation with our expert foot and ankle surgeons today.

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