Foot and Ankle Surgery
Sprain, strains and fractures can occur in a flash. Whether you’re a professional athlete out on the field or simply miss a step on your way out the door, injuries can happen to anyone. Expert orthopedic surgeons at WMCHealth, along with a team of professionals, have your back and will work to see you through recovery and on to maximum functionality as quickly as possible.
When Is Foot and Ankle Surgery Needed?
Many foot and ankle injuries, such as sprains and strains (and even some fractures), can be treated non-surgically through rest, physical therapy, or orthotic devices such as braces or boots. Sometimes surgery is required. Your orthopedic surgeon may recommend surgery to treat:
- Trauma: Fractures, dislocations, and severe injuries to the foot or ankle often require surgical intervention to realign bones, repair ligaments, or stabilize the joint.
- Arthritis: Advanced arthritis in the foot or ankle can cause significant pain and loss of function. Surgery may be needed to remove damaged tissue, fuse joints, or replace joints with prosthetics.
- Deformities: Conditions such as bunions, hammertoes, and flat feet can cause pain and difficulty walking. Surgery may be recommended to correct these deformities and improve foot function.
- Sports injuries: Athletes may require surgery for conditions such as tendon tears, ligament injuries, or stress fractures that do not heal with conservative treatments.
- Chronic conditions: Conditions like plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendonitis, or tarsal tunnel syndrome may require surgery if conservative treatments fail to provide relief.
- Nerve compression: Conditions such as Morton's neuroma or nerve entrapment syndromes may require surgical release to relieve pressure on the affected nerves.
- Tumors: Benign or malignant tumors in the foot or ankle may require surgical removal to prevent further spread and preserve function.
- Congenital defects: Some individuals are born with foot or ankle abnormalities that require surgical correction to improve function and prevent complications.
Types of Foot and Ankle Surgeries
Given the wide range of conditions that foot and ankle surgery can treat, the type of foot or ankle surgery or treatment you may need depends on the condition or injury. WMCHealth has extensive experience in the range of foot and ankle surgical procedures. Some treatments include:
- Bunionectomy
- Hammertoe correction
- Ankle arthroscopy
- Ankle fusion (arthrodesis)
- Ankle replacement (arthroplasty)
- Achilles tendon repair
- Plantar fascia release
- Neuroma excision
- Tendon transfers
- Metatarsal osteotomy
- Wound debridement and management of osteomyelitis for limb salvage
If you do need foot or ankle surgery, your doctor will explain what to expect and guide you through the procedure.
What to Expect During Foot or Ankle Surgery
Prior to foot or ankle surgery, you can expect a comprehensive pre-operative assessment, including medical history review and imaging tests. On the day of surgery, you’ll receive anesthesia to ensure comfort throughout the procedure. Depending on the type of surgery, the procedure may be performed using minimally invasive techniques or traditional open surgery techniques.
Post-surgery, patients will be closely monitored for any complications and provided with pain management and rehabilitation guidance to facilitate a smooth recovery and optimal long-term outcomes.
Why Choose WMCHealth?
The foot and ankle surgeons at WMCHealth are experts in treating routine issues, as well as complex and delicate procedures. Our team’s access to the most advanced care and techniques in the area means that you can have complicated procedures close to home.
Foot or Ankle Surgery Recovery
After foot or ankle surgery, a tailored recovery plan is essential for optimal healing. Patients may experience swelling, discomfort, and limited mobility initially, but these effects typically improve over time. Physical therapy may be prescribed to restore strength, flexibility, and range of motion. It's crucial to follow post-operative instructions, including wound care and activity restrictions, to minimize complications and achieve the best results. Regular follow-up appointments will allow healthcare providers to monitor progress and adjust the treatment plan as needed.
What to Do Next
If you or a loved one has a foot or ankle condition or has experienced a foot or ankle injury, the orthopedic surgeons at WMCHealth are here to provide comprehensive care, from diagnosis through rehabilitation and recovery. Our focus on excellence ensures you receive advanced care close to home.
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