When it comes to foot and ankle surgery, many different conditions can be treated. This type of surgery can help alleviate pain and improve mobility. Foot and ankle surgery is a safe and effective option for treating conditions affecting the feet and ankles. The first step is to book an appointment with a foot and ankle surgeon Alamo Heights to assess your condition.
What happens during the appointment?
Your surgeon will evaluate your feet and ankles, including any current symptoms. They may also take X-rays or perform other tests to get a full picture of the problem. Once they have determined the diagnosis, they will discuss treatment options with you.
The x-rays and tests will help them determine if surgery is the best treatment option. Depending on the condition, it may be something that can be treated non-surgically or with medication.
Some of the common conditions foot and ankle surgeons can treat include:
Fractures
This type of condition happens when a bone is broken or cracked. Foot and ankle surgeons can repair the fracture surgically with plates, screws, and cast immobilization. The main cause of fractures is an injury or trauma.
Arthritis
This condition causes joint pain and stiffness due to inflammation of the joints. The surgeon may recommend surgery if medication and other treatments are not helping. Depending on the severity of arthritis, the surgery may involve removing part of the bone or joint to reduce pain.
Bunions
Bunions are bony bumps on the big toe’s side caused by shoes that don’t fit properly or genetics. Surgery is usually recommended to correct this condition and improve mobility.
Achilles Tendinitis
This condition occurs when the Achilles tendon becomes inflamed or irritated. It can be caused by overuse, improper footwear, or an injury. Surgery is typically only recommended if other treatments have not successfully reduced pain and inflammation.
Neuromas
This condition involves the thickening of a nerve, usually due to irritation or injury. Surgery may be necessary to remove the affected nerve and reduce pain. The main symptoms to watch out for are numbness, tingling, burning pain, and a sensation of something inside the foot.
Apart from surgery, a foot and ankle surgeon can recommend these treatments:
- Custom orthotics
These custom-made shoe inserts can help correct the alignment of feet and ankles. This can reduce pain and improve mobility.
- Physical therapy
This treatment involves specific exercises and stretches to help strengthen the muscles, tendons, and ligaments in the feet and ankles. It can also increase flexibility and reduce pain.
- Medication
Anti-inflammatory medication is often prescribed to help reduce pain and swelling. For more severe conditions, stronger medications may be necessary to control the symptoms, such as nerve pain or inflammation.
- Non-surgical treatments
These include lifestyle changes, such as weight loss, wearing supportive shoes, and avoiding activities that aggravate the condition. Surgery may be recommended if these treatments don’t help improve your symptoms.
- Bracing and Splints
A foot and ankle surgeon can provide you with a custom-made brace or splint to help reduce pain and support the injured area.
Foot and ankle surgery aim to alleviate pain and improve mobility so you can live better. If you are experiencing any symptoms in your feet or ankles, it is important to contact Marque A. Allen, DPM, FACFAS.
