Reasons You May Need Foot or Ankle Surgery

Injury to a foot or ankle may lead to podiatric surgery. A severe break, a deep laceration, rupture of a tendon--all these need the skill of your experienced podiatrists at The Foot and Ankle Group in Philadelphia, PA. What other circumstances require a foot or ankle operation? Let us help you make the right decision about your podiatric health.

The goals of foot and ankle surgery

Anyone with foot or ankle problems wants to reduce pain, increase function and mobility and have a normal, everyday life. Many diabetic patients look for improved circulation and nerve sensation and to treat infections before they get out of hand. Additionally, podiatric patients wish to improve the appearance of their feet, correct deformities and wear normal, everyday shoes.

Your podiatrist at The Foot and Ankle Group in Philadelphia endeavors to reach those goals using simpler interventions first--things such as orthotics (shoe inserts), pain medications, casting, splints, rest and more. It's only when these treatments prove ineffective that doctor and patient should consider foot and ankle surgery.

Conditions which may warrant surgery

1. Plantar fasciitis, an inflammation of the connective tissue between the toes and calcaneus, or heel bone.

2. Ankle instability due to repeated sprains or fractures

3. Arthritis which has deteriorated joints (ankle fusion and replacement procedures)

4. Removal of benign growths called neuromas


Your pre-op testing

It all happens at The Foot and Ankle Group. Your podiatrist will exam your foot or ankle, review your medical history (including allergies and medications), and perform these tests as needed:

  • Blood work
  • EKG
  • X-ray imaging (CAT scan, MRI)
  • Gait analysis (a visualization of how you place your feet as you walk)


Aftercare

Your podiatrist will specify how to take care of your foot or ankle after surgery, including suture care, immobilization, pain management and crutches, casting or other kinds of immobilization. Carefully following post-op instructions speeds recovery, explains the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA).


Contact us

Learn more about what foot and ankle surgery could do for your mobility and overall quality of life. Call us for an in-depth consultation at one of the four locations of The Foot and Ankle Group. In Philadelphia, PA, call (215) 332-5300. For the Mount Laurel, PA, location, phone (856) 234-0195. In Bordentown, NJ, call (609) 291-0960, and for our Columbus, NJ, office, reach us at (609) 298-7000.