When Is Foot Surgery Necessary?

Certain conditions can affect your feet and make it difficult to stand or walk. In these cases, non-invasive methods may not be enough, and foot surgery may be necessary. Read on to learn about common conditions that require foot surgery and what you should expect during the procedure.

Structural Deformities

Structural deformities like bunions, hammertoes, and flat feet can cause significant discomfort and hinder mobility. In some cases, severe deformities may cause bone and joint damage, which can only be corrected by surgery.

In the procedure, the surgeon will eliminate the damaged bone, readjust the foot, and place screws or plates to provide support to the affected region. The recovery period typically lasts for a few weeks, with subsequent appointments to ensure a smooth healing process.

Arthritis

Arthritis can cause inflammation, pain, and stiffness in the joints, including those in the foot. When non-surgical treatments like medication, physical therapy, and orthotics fail to provide relief, surgery may be the next option.

Surgical procedures like joint fusion and joint replacement aim to ease pain and improve mobility, but they also require careful planning and monitoring to reduce the risk of complications.

Neuromas

Neuromas are painful conditions that occur when the tissues around a nerve in the foot become inflamed and thickened. When conservative treatments, such as custom orthotics and cortisone injections, fail to alleviate the pain, surgery may be necessary.

Surgical procedures like nerve decompression or removal can help relieve the symptoms but may require a longer recovery period than non-invasive methods.

Tumors

Although rare, tumors can develop in the foot and can either be benign or malignant. Surgical removal of the tumor, along with any affected tissues and bone, is necessary to prevent the spread of cancer.

Depending on the size and severity of the tumor, the surgeon may need to perform a partial or total amputation. Postoperative care is essential to prevent infections and promote healing.

Trauma

Accidents or injuries to the foot, such as fractures or dislocations, may require foot surgery to repair the damage and prevent further complications. The type of surgical procedure required will vary depending on the severity of the injury.

How long it takes to recover will vary depending on the severity of the injury. However, complete restoration of function and mobility may require physical therapy and rehabilitation.

Performing foot surgery is a meticulous and intricate procedure that necessitates thoughtful deliberation and meticulous planning to achieve the most optimal results. While non-invasive methods should be the first line of treatment, surgery may be necessary when other treatments fail to improve symptoms or when the condition is severe. If you're dealing with persistent foot pain or discomfort, it's advisable to seek guidance from a podiatrist to determine the most suitable treatment options.

For more information, contact a foot doctor near you.