Foot Surgery

Why Would I Need Foot Surgery?

With the exception of certain kinds of conditions like an acute fracture, many conditions of the foot can be managed with conservative therapy. These medical management strategies include medications, exercise, braces, or orthotics. However, when the problem doesn't respond to conservative therapy, surgery may solve the problem. Persistent pain or deformity despite treatment is often an indication that surgery is required.

What are the Types of Foot Surgery?

Since the foot is a very complex structure, there are many kinds of foot surgeries, but they essentially fall into four groups: tendon and ligament repairs, fusions, removal of bones or tumors, and reconstruction. Fully or partially torn tendons and ligaments are surgically repaired to promote the stability of the foot and ankle. A fusion is a bone graft and is often used to treat arthritic conditions. Bones might need to be removed to redistribute body weight or realign a hammer toe, and a tumor is removed to reduce pressure. Reconstruction is a complex procedure that might include many of these techniques and is used to restore function and stability, reduce pain or prevent further deformity.

What Kinds of Foot Surgery Can a Podiatrist Perform?

Each state regulates the practice of podiatry and determines what a podiatrist can do. In general, however, podiatrists can remove bunions, corns, and calluses; correct hammertoes (toes bent in the middle so they stick up) and remove heel spurs. They can remove neuromas, which result from a nerve injury, or tumors like lipomas. They may also provide surgical treatment of crushing injuries that affect the foot or repair tendon and ligament injuries, or perform bone grafts in the foot.

What About Postoperative Care?

Postoperative care will vary according to the type of surgery and anesthetic. Some podiatric surgeries can be performed in the office using local anesthesia, while others require a general anesthetic and night or two in the hospital. Nearly all include RICE: rest, ice, compression with bandages, splints or casts, and elevation of the foot above the heart. Some patients need supportive devices like a walker or crutches, and physical therapy may also be recommended in some cases.