Procedures for Correcting Foot and Ankle Problems

Our feet and ankles carry the burden of our everyday lives every step of the way, and they are prone to swelling and pain. If these problems persist and/or are in conjunction with deformities, then podiatric surgery may be the suitable option for long-lasting relief.

In this brief article brought to you by Mountain Spring Podiatry, we touch on some common surgical procedures for correcting foot and ankle problems. If you’d rather consult with a licensed podiatrist in Warrenton, then contact Mountain Spring Podiatry to schedule a convenient appointment. Our team is ready to take your call or message today.

Bunionectomy: Bunion surgery

A bunion is a bony bump that forms on the joint at the base of the big toe. It’s notorious for causing pain and difficulty wearing shoes. Over time, the big toe may lean towards the other toes, leading to further discomfort and deformity.

Bunion surgery, or bunionectomy, involves realigning the bone, ligaments, tendons, and nerves to bring the big toe back to its proper position. There are different types of bunion surgeries, ranging from minimally invasive procedures to more complex corrections. The goal is to relieve pain and restore normal foot function.

A bunionectomy is typically recommended when conservative treatments like wearing wider shoes, using orthotics, or taking anti-inflammatory medications have failed to provide relief.

Hammertoe surgery

Hammertoe is a deformity where one or more of the smaller toes become bent at the middle joint, making it/them resemble a hammer. This condition can cause pain, corns, and calluses from the toe rubbing against shoes.

Hammertoe surgery corrects the deformity by realigning the toe. This can involve removing part of the bone, releasing or lengthening tendons, or fusing the joint. The specific approach depends on the severity of the hammertoe and the recommendation of the foot specialists in Manassas.

If hammertoe is causing significant pain or interfering with daily activities, or if conservative treatments like toe exercises, foot care, padding, or custom orthotics haven’t worked, then hammertoe surgery might be the best option.

Plantar fasciitis surgery

Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain. It is typically caused by inflammation of the plantar fascia, which is a thick band of tissue that runs across the bottom of your foot and connects your heel bone to your toes.

When non-surgical treatments like physical therapy, orthotics, or corticosteroid injections don’t alleviate the pain of plantar fasciitis, then your foot doctor may consider surgery. The procedure, known as plantar fascia release, involves cutting part of the plantar fascia ligament to relieve tension and reduce inflammation.

This surgery is generally recommended only after other treatments have been tried for at least 6 to 12 months without success.

Ankle arthroscopy

Ankle arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure meant to diagnose and treat problems within the ankle joint. It’s often used for issues like arthritis, cartilage damage, or loose bone fragments.

During an ankle arthroscopy, a small camera (arthroscope) is inserted into the joint through a tiny incision. The surgeon or foot doctor can then view the inside of the joint on a screen and use small instruments to make repairs. This procedure can relieve pain, improve joint function, and help diagnose ongoing issues that haven’t been clearly identified with imaging alone.

Tendon repair surgery

Tendon injuries, such as an Achilles tendon rupture or peroneal tendon tear, can cause significant pain and limit your ability to walk or engage in physical activities.

Tendon repair surgery involves stitching the torn tendon back together or using a tendon graft to repair the damage. This surgery is meant to restore strength and function to the affected tendon.

Consult with a licensed podiatrist

If you are dealing with foot deformities or chronic foot and ankle pain, then do yourself a favor by addressing it as soon as possible. Residents in the area can contact Mountain Spring Podiatry to get started with a consultation with a licensed podiatrist. Our team is on standby to take your call or message today.