These areas of the body are intricate and therefore susceptible to a variety of conditions that can impact your quality of life. Specialised care ensures that these conditions are diagnosed accurately and can be treated efficiently. London, known for its world-class healthcare system, offers access to top-tier foot and ankle specialists equipped with the latest advancements in medical technology and treatments.
Common Foot and Ankle Conditions Treated by Specialists
Plantar Fasciitis:
Plantar fasciitis is a common condition involving inflammation of the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that runs across the bottom of your foot and connects your heel bone to your toes. This condition typically causes stabbing pain in the heel, especially with the first steps in the morning.
Achilles Tendonitis:
Achilles tendonitis occurs when the Achilles tendon, which connects the calf muscles to the heel bone, becomes inflamed due to overuse or injury. Symptoms include pain, swelling, and stiffness in the tendon, particularly after physical activity.
Bunions:
A bunion is a bony bump that forms on the joint at the base of your big toe. This condition can cause significant pain and discomfort, with visible swelling and redness. Bunions are often caused by wearing tight, narrow shoes and can be exacerbated by arthritis.
Ankle Sprains and Fractures:
Ankle sprains involve the stretching or tearing of ligaments that support the ankle, while fractures refer to a break in one or more of the bones that make up the ankle joint. Both conditions can cause pain, swelling, and difficulty walking.
Arthritis:
Arthritis in the foot and ankle can lead to pain, swelling, and stiffness. The most common types are osteoarthritis, which results from wear and tear, and rheumatoid arthritis, an autoimmune condition that causes joint inflammation.
Why Choose a Foot and Ankle Specialist in London?
Access to Experienced Consultants with Advanced Training:
London is home to some of the best healthcare found worldwide, and this extends to foot and ankle specialists. The city is notable for having better access to advanced treatment than other parts of the country due to the number of high quality foot and ankle specialists present.
State-of-the-Art Diagnostic and Treatment Facilities:
Specialists in London have access to state-of-the-art diagnostic and treatment facilities, such as MRI and ultrasound, which are commonly used to assess conditions in detail.
Personalised Care Plans Tailored to Individual Needs:
Foot and ankle specialists in London often have the time and resources to devise personalised care plans. Tailored treatment means that each patient is able to receive care specialised to their specific condition and circumstances.
Foot and Ankle Treatment Options Available
When treating foot or ankle issues, non-surgical treatments are always prioritised. This is because they are the least invasive issues, have lower risk of complications, and are the least disruptive to the patient.
Non-surgical treatments:
– Physical Therapy: Physical therapy is often recommended to improve strength, flexibility, and range of motion. Therapists may use techniques such as massage, exercises, and stretches to alleviate pain and improve function. Some stretches can be performed at home, too, such as for ankle sprains.
– Orthotics: Custom orthotic devices can help support and align the foot and ankle, reducing pain and preventing further injury. The benefit of these devices is that they are the least disruptive to daily life.
– Medication: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and other medications can help manage pain and inflammation.
If non-surgical treatments alone do not manage to solve foot or ankle issues, surgical intervention may be proposed. Surgical intervention marks an effective last resort for major issues – while they are disruptive and will put you out of action for a while, they have the best chance of fixing issues in the longer term.
Surgical Procedures:
– Minimally Invasive Surgery: Minimally invasive techniques involve smaller incisions, resulting in less pain and faster recovery times. These procedures are often used to treat conditions like bunions and plantar fasciitis. Minimally invasive surgery is the preferred treatment method by our very own Dr Malagelada due to its faster recovery times.
– Reconstructive Surgery: Reconstructive surgery may be necessary for more complex conditions, such as severe fractures or arthritis. This type of surgery aims to restore function and alleviate pain.
– Arthroscopy: Arthroscopy is a minimally invasive procedure that allows surgeons to diagnose and treat joint problems using a small camera, which is then inserted. It is commonly used for conditions like ankle impingement and cartilage damage.
How to Choose the Right Foot and Ankle Specialist
Research Qualifications and Experience:
When choosing a foot and ankle specialist, you should really look at considering their qualifications and experience. Look for specialists who have advanced training and a proven track record in treating foot and ankle conditions (like ours!).
Read Patient Reviews:
Patient reviews can provide insight into the quality of care provided by a specialist. Look for positive feedback from patients who have had similar conditions and treatments. Testimonials for our own services can be viewed on our YouTube channel.
Assess the Range of Services Offered:
Choose a specialist who offers a wide range of services, including both non-surgical and surgical treatments. This ensures that you receive the most appropriate care for your condition. Personalised treatment plans are the gold standard, too, as they will best ensure you receive the best advice for you as an individual.
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.
Should you have persistent foot and ankle pain, then click here to request an appointment now.
