Foot and ankle surgery: do you need it
Our feet and ankles play a crucial role in our daily lives, providing stability, support, and mobility. Unfortunately, any structures as complicated and often fragile as the human foot or ankle are bound to encounter issues at some point in our lives, and when issues arise, it can have a serious impact on your lifestyle.
In this article we will talk you through some of the more common issues that may lead to patients requiring surgery, as well as shedding some light on some of the potential risks involved.
Is foot and ankle surgery always required?
In the majority of cases, surgery is not required. Due to the risk factors and inconveniences involved, it is seen as more of a last resort. However, surgery may still be considered depending on the severity of symptoms, or if other treatments do not have the desired effects on your wellbeing.
Other factors may be considered, such as your lifestyle choices, to determine whether surgery is right for you. If your feet or ankles are giving you immense pain, and especially if you can see any physical deformities, it is always recommended to see a specialist to decide the best course of action.
Here, we will list some common foot or ankle issues that we see in patients, that may or may not require surgery:
Bunions
Bunions are bony protrusions that form on the joint at the base of the big toe. This condition is often caused by wearing tight shoes, genetics, or abnormal foot mechanics. The bunion causes the big toe to deviate towards the smaller toes, leading to pain, swelling, and difficulty finding comfortable footwear. Over time, bunions can affect mobility and cause secondary issues like corns and calluses. Corrective surgery may be required.
Hammer Toes
Hammer toes result from an imbalance in the toe muscles, causing the toes to bend abnormally at the joints. This condition can be genetic or develop due to wearing ill-fitting shoes. Hammer toes often lead to pain, corns, and calluses, as the toes rub against shoes. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to correct the deformity and alleviate discomfort. For more on hammer toes, read here.
Metatarsal Damage
The metatarsals are the long bones in the foot that connect the toes to the midfoot. Stress fractures, overuse, or trauma can cause metatarsal damage, resulting in pain, swelling, and difficulty walking. Athletes and those who engage in high-impact activities are more prone to metatarsal injuries. Surgery may be required in severe cases.Ankle arthritis
Arthritis, a condition characterised by inflammation of the joints, can also affect the ankle. Ankle arthritis often develops due to wear and tear, previous injuries, or autoimmune disorders. Symptoms include pain, swelling, stiffness, and difficulty bearing weight on the affected ankle. In advanced cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to address the damaged joint; this may come in the form of an ankle fusion (fusing the talus bone to the tibia after removing the damaged joint), or an outright ankle replacement.Plantar fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot, connecting the heel to the toes. Common causes include overuse, improper footwear, and abnormal foot mechanics. Individuals with plantar fasciitis experience heel pain, especially during the first steps in the morning or after prolonged periods of rest. Conservative treatments, such as stretching exercises and orthotics, are often effective, but in some cases, surgery may be considered.What should you consider before undergoing foot and ankle surgeries?
Like with all major decisions - especially when health related - it is a wise choice to consider any potential positives or implications before undergoing surgery. Surgery often represents a great chance at correcting underlying issues, but success is never a guarantee.Some benefits of foot and ankle surgeries
Surgery typically becomes a viable option when conservative treatments fail to provide relief or when the condition is severe. One significant benefit is pain relief, as surgical procedures aim to correct the underlying issues causing discomfort. If successful, surgery also allows patients to regain mobility, by restoring functionality in their feet and ankles. Surgical intervention can also prevent the progression of deformities, potentially reducing the risk of developing secondary complications.Some drawbacks of foot and ankle surgeries
While surgery can offer significant benefits, it is essential to consider potential drawbacks. First and foremost is the recovery period, which varies depending on the procedure and the individual's overall health. In this period, the patient may find life tough due to the postoperative pain, swelling, and limited mobility which are common during this phase. Complications, although rare, may include infection, nerve damage, or unsatisfactory cosmetic outcomes. Additionally, surgery does not guarantee complete resolution of symptoms, and there may be residual pain or limitations in some cases.If you are having issues with your feet or ankles, don’t hesitate to get in touch in order to book an appointment or consultation.