What foot pain can be treated by an orthopaedic surgeon?

An orthopaedic surgeon is a highly trained medical specialist focused on diagnosing and treating conditions and injuries of the musculoskeletal system. The musculoskeletal system provides support, stability, and movement to the human body. It is composed of two main components: the skeletal system, which includes bones, joints, ligaments, and cartilage, and the muscular system, which comprises skeletal muscles and tendons. The health of the musculoskeletal system - like many parts of the body - can be maintained through regular physical activity and a healthy diet.

Orthopaedic surgeons often concentrate on specific parts of the musculoskeletal system, such as the hand, spine, hip, foot, or knee. Their role includes both diagnosing and treating musculoskeletal issues, using either surgical or non-surgical methods. When surgery is required, they are skilled in performing procedures to correct deformities, repair injuries, alleviate pain, and restore function. Post-surgery, they also manage the patient’s rehabilitation to ensure a successful recovery.

Today’s topic is feet; namely, some common ailments experienced, and how an orthopaedic surgeon may be able to help. The recovery process for foot conditions varies based on the severity of the condition and the treatment approach. Typically, surgery is not the first option due to its risks and inconveniences; however, it may be considered if symptoms are severe, or if other treatments do not yield the desired results.

Common Foot Injuries Treated by Orthopaedic Surgeons

Plantar Fasciitis: A common cause of heel pain, plantar fasciitis involves inflammation of the plantar fascia, the thick band of tissue that runs across the bottom of your foot and connects your heel bone to your toes. Symptoms include stabbing pain in the heel, especially in the morning. Treatment often involves rest, ice, physical therapy, and orthotic devices.

Bunions: Bunions are bony bumps that form on the joint at the base of your big toe. They occur when some of the bones in the front part of your foot move out of place. Symptoms include a bulging bump on the outside of your big toe, swelling, and pain. Treatment can range from wearing roomier shoes to surgical intervention in severe cases.

Stress Fractures: Stress fractures are tiny cracks in a bone, often caused by repetitive force or overuse, such as repeatedly jumping up and down or running long distances. Symptoms include pain that worsens with activity and diminishes with rest. Treatment typically involves rest and avoiding activities that put stress on the foot, with surgery being a last resort.

Morton’s Neuroma: Morton’s neuroma is a painful condition that affects the ball of your foot, most commonly the area between your third and fourth toes. It involves a thickening of the tissue around one of the nerves leading to your toes. Symptoms include a sharp, burning pain in the ball of your foot and tingling or numbness in your toes. Treatment options include changing footwear, orthotics, and in some cases, surgery.

Orthopaedic foot and ankle treatments in London

Dr. Francesc Malagelada is a leading consultant trauma and orthopaedic surgeon based in London. He treats foot and ankle disorders, using non-surgical and surgical treatments that best suit each patient and their lifestyle.

When appropriate, he performs arthroscopy (keyhole) or minimally-invasive surgery using the latest techniques. Some benefits of these are that they can provide faster recovery and almost unnoticeable scars. Dr Malagelada’s research into the field of minimally-invasive surgery resulted in a PhD with a ‘cum laude’ distinction.

Should you suspect you have any of these conditions, or have general foot and ankle pain, then click here to request an appointment now.