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Foot surgery is usually only performed when more conservative treatments like medication, therapy, custom orthotics, bracing and other non-surgical techniques have failed to provide relief for symptoms, or when a condition is so severe, nonsurgical approaches are not an option, such as when a compound fracture occurs in the ankle. Many foot injuries and conditions can be managed with nonsurgical approaches, but in some cases, advanced surgical techniques are required to restore function, strength and flexibility to the foot or ankle.
What kinds of conditions can be treated with foot surgery?
Today, many types of surgery can be used to help treat problems in the feet and ankles, including procedures to treat:
- bunions
- hammertoes
- flat feet
- bone spurs
- plantar fasciitis
- foot deformities
- ligament and tendon injuries including tears
- fractures
- nerve impingements and neuromas
- traumatic injuries
- arthritis
Some surgeries can be used to re-position bones, ligaments or tendons or to remove portions of bone, and other surgeries may use tiny pins or screws to hold joints or bones in place.
What happens during recovery from foot surgery?
Many types of surgery can be performed using minimally-invasive techniques, relying on smaller incisions for faster recovery and less pain and discomfort. Depending on the type of surgery that is performed, a cast or special surgical boot may be applied following the procedure to provide stability for the foot and ankle during healing, and in some cases, crutches or a cane may be needed during the initial stages of recovery to facilitate mobility. Physical therapy may also be recommended to restore movement, flexibility and strength. The time required for complete recovery will depend on several factors, including the type of surgery that was performed and the overall health of the patient. Follow-up visits will be scheduled to ensure the foot heals properly.
What are the most common types of foot surgery?
Metatarsal Foot Surgery– Due to arthritis causing metatarsophalangeal joints to dislocate. It can often feel like walking on tiny rocks.
Bunions Foot Surgery- Due to bony lumps on your feet caused by hallux valgus causing the joints in your big toe to uncomfortably bend towards the other toes, thus causing bunions.
Hammer Toe Foot Surgery– Due also to hallux valgus, it can cause toes to bend and take a claw shape, making it extremely uncomfortable to walk.
Common Questions Asked About Foot Surgery
Foot surgery can sound like a scary procedure, and it is reasonable to want to know all of the ins and outs of it before going through with the process of a possible procedure. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about foot surgery:
-How long is the surgery?
Depending on the condition you are treating, times may vary. Typically, a foot surgery usually is only about an hour procedure, followed by time in the clinic where you will be observed before being discharged, like all surgeries.
-How soon after foot surgery can you walk?
Again, this all depends on your specific treatment. Sometimes patients will be able to walk after their procedure with a medically prescribed walking boot; some will have to take a bit of time off their feet at home, in a wheelchair, or crutches.
-Is foot surgery safe?
At Global Podiatry, we take pride in the level of expertise and care our podiatrists deliver during medical procedures.
-What Are The Chances Of Complications?
Any kind of complication is extremely rare when receiving foot surgery. According to the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons, most foot surgeries have a 98 percent satisfaction rate resulting in no complications.
At Global Podiatry, we take the highest care in our services and have the best interests of our patients in mind, so you can sit back and relax knowing that you are putting your trust in the best hands!
What You Should Know before Foot Surgery
Reduce the limit of smoking and alcohol consumption before your surgery
Excessively smoking and drinking can have an unprecedented effect on surgery. Both of these activities can reduce circulation throughout the body, and it can significantly enhance your risk of suffering from surgical infections and complications after your surgery. This can then result in an increase of pain and a slower recovery process.
Prepare for recovery before your surgery
Depending on your foot surgery, you may be in a recovery period for a few weeks. So it is best to get stocked up on the essentials and get all of your “ducks in a row” beforehand to allow you maximum time to recuperate. A few things you can do are: Stock up on things like snacks, foods, toilet paper, etc. so that you don’t have to make any extra trips to the store during recovery. Meal Preparation. This will limit the movements and energy you have to put into cooking while you should be resting; just pop your meal in the microwave and your good to go, fast and straightforward.
Give your house a good clean so that you aren’t worried about getting behind on tidying up. Recovery can often lead to being bored, avoid this by picking out some new books, movies, and crafts. Ask your friends or family to be available in the case that you need any assistance throughout the recovery process.
Don’t think twice about asking questions
At Global Podiatry, we want to do whatever we can to make you feel comfortable and at home while exploring the option of foot surgery. We want you to know all of the ins and outs of the procedure and any questions that you may have we will happily answer for you!