When to Consider Foot and Ankle Surgery: A Patient's Guide

Foot and ankle pain can significantly impact daily life, making walking, exercising, or performing everyday activities difficult. Although doctors can manage many foot and ankle issues with conservative treatments like rest, physical therapy, or medications, some conditions may require surgical intervention to restore function and alleviate pain. This guide will explore the common conditions that might necessitate foot and ankle surgery and what patients can expect when considering surgical options.

Common Conditions That May Require Foot and Ankle Surgery

1. Bunions

A bunion is a bony bump that forms on the joint at the base of the big toe. This condition can cause significant pain, swelling, and deformity, making it difficult to find comfortable footwear or walk without discomfort. Surgery may be necessary for patients with severe bunions that do not respond to non-surgical treatments like orthotics, padding, or anti-inflammatory medications. Bunion surgery, also known as a bunionectomy, involves removing the bony prominence and realigning the bones of the big toe to correct the deformity and relieve pain.

2. Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis is a common cause of heel pain resulting from inflammation of the plantar fascia—a thick band of tissue that runs across the bottom of the foot. Most cases of plantar fasciitis can improve with conservative treatments like stretching, physical therapy, orthotics, and corticosteroid injections, but doctors may consider surgery when the pain becomes chronic and debilitating. Surgical options, such as plantar fascia release, involve cutting part of the plantar fascia to help relieve tension and reduce inflammation, helping to alleviate persistent heel pain.

3. Achilles Tendon Disorders

Achilles tendon disorders, including tendonitis and rupture, can cause significant pain and impair mobility. Achilles tendonitis results from overuse or strain, causing inflammation and pain in the tendon. A rupture is a tear in the tendon that can occur suddenly during activities that involve jumping or sudden movements. While many cases of Achilles tendonitis may respond well to conservative treatments like rest, ice, and physical therapy, a ruptured Achilles tendon often requires surgery to repair the torn tendon and help restore normal function. Doctors typically recommend surgical repair for active individuals who want to return to regular activities.

4. Ankle Fractures and Instability

Ankle fractures can occur from falls, sports injuries, or accidents and often require surgical intervention to ensure proper healing and prevent long-term complications. Surgery is generally necessary when the fracture is severe, involves multiple bones, or causes instability in the ankle joint. During surgery, the orthopedic surgeon will realign the bones and secure them with screws, plates, or rods to stabilize the ankle and promote healing. Doctors may also need to perform surgery for patients with chronic ankle instability caused by repeated sprains or ligament damage that hasn't improved with physical therapy or bracing.

5. Arthritis of the Foot and Ankle

Arthritis can affect any joint in the foot and ankle, leading to pain, stiffness, and swelling that can limit mobility. If conservative treatments like medications, orthotics, and physical therapy fail to relieve symptoms, surgery becomes a viable option. Surgeons treat arthritis with options like joint fusion, which fuses the affected joint to eliminate pain and improve stability, or joint replacement, which replaces damaged joint surfaces with artificial implants. The choice of surgery depends on the severity of arthritis, the specific joints involved, and the patient's overall health and activity level.

6. Flatfoot Deformity

Flatfoot deformity, or fallen arches, occurs when the arches of the foot collapse, causing the entire foot to touch the ground. This condition can lead to pain, swelling, and difficulty walking or standing for long periods. Surgery may be necessary for patients with severe flatfoot deformities who do not respond to conservative treatments such as orthotics, physical therapy, or bracing. Surgical options for flatfoot deformity include tendon repair, bone realignment, and joint fusion, depending on the underlying cause and severity of the condition.

What to Expect When Considering Foot and Ankle Surgery

If you are considering foot and ankle surgery, it is essential to understand the process and what to expect. Here's a general overview:

1. Consultation and Diagnosis

The first step is a thorough consultation with an orthopedic surgeon specializing in foot and ankle conditions. During this visit, the surgeon will review your medical history, perform a physical examination, and order imaging studies such as X-rays, MRIs, or CT scans to assess the extent of the condition.

2. Treatment Plan

Based on the diagnosis, the surgeon will discuss the most appropriate treatment options, including surgical and non-surgical alternatives. If the surgeon recommends surgery, they will explain the procedure, discuss the risks and benefits, and outline the expected recovery timeline.

3. Preoperative Preparation

Before surgery, you may undergo preoperative testing to ensure good health. Your surgeon will provide specific instructions on preparing for surgery, including any necessary medications, dietary restrictions, and lifestyle adjustments.

4. Surgery and Recovery

The surgery will be performed in a hospital or outpatient surgical center, depending on the complexity of the procedure. Recovery times vary based on the type of surgery and individual factors, but most patients can expect a period of immobilization, followed by physical therapy to help restore strength and mobility. Following your surgeon's postoperative instructions closely ensures a smooth recovery.

5. Follow-Up Care

Regular follow-up visits with your surgeon will be necessary to monitor your progress and address any concerns. Your surgeon will guide you on when you can gradually resume your normal activities, including work, exercise, and sports.

Contact Arizona Specialty Hospital Today

Foot and ankle surgery can significantly improve the quality of life for patients with severe pain or deformities that do not respond to conservative treatments. Understanding the conditions that may require surgery and what to expect from the process can help you make an informed decision about your care. Arizona Specialty Hospital's experienced orthopedic surgeons provide personalized care and guide you through every step of your treatment journey. If you are considering foot or ankle surgery, contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about your options.

Sources

• American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS). "Bunion Surgery: What to Expect." | https://orthoinfo.aaos.org/en/treatment/bunion-surgery/
• Mayo Clinic. "Achilles Tendon Rupture." | https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/achilles-tendon-rupture/symptoms-causes/syc-20353237
• Cleveland Clinic. "Foot and Ankle Arthritis." | https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/16594-foot--ankle-arthritis
• Johns Hopkins Medicine. "Flatfoot Surgery: What You Need to Know." | https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/treatment-tests-and-therapies/flatfoot-surgery