When would you need foot surgery? Your Kalispell podiatrist, Dr. Esther Barnes, says reasons and circumstances vary. However, generally
people need an operation to reduce pain, correct structural deformity and improve an improper gait. If you're concerned about how your foot looks, feels, or functions, contact Step Ahead Foot & Ankle Clinic for a precise diagnosis and treatment.
Does every foot problem require surgery?
The answer is no. In fact, your Kalispell podiatrist believes many other treatment options optimize lower extremity function and comfort. At Step Ahead Foot & Ankle Clinic, Dr. Barnes has an on-staff pedorthist to craft special footwear and orthotics (shoe inserts) to cushion wounds, correct gait problems, accommodate deformities, and more.
Situations requiring surgery
Only your podiatrist can determine if you need foot or ankle surgery, its type and how you'll recover. Dr. Barnes will examine your foot and gait, do specialized X-rays or other imaging and consult with your primary care physician about your medical history as needed.
The American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) outlines many kinds of foot and ankle operations, many of which may be performed in-office on an outpatient basis. They include:
- Bunionectomy to remove the bony bump associated with the base of the big toe. This operation may re-align the toe, too.
- Fusion surgery removes the cartilage from a foot or ankle joint and adds pins, screws, or plates to stabilize it.
- Toenail removal corrects an ingrown toenail or one severely damaged by traumatic injury. Matrixectomy destroys the nail bed so the nail cannot grow again.
- Heel spur removal often accompanies the treatment of an inflammatory condition called plantar fasciitis.
- Hammertoe correction straightens this deformity common to diabetics. A wire or implant maintains the new position of the toe.
- Achilles tendon release actually lengthens a tight and painful tendon that connects the calf muscle and heel.
- A neuroma surgery removes benign growths of the nerves in the ball of the foot. This operation relieves pain, tingling and numbness.
After surgery...
The team at Step Ahead Foot & Ankle Clinic will help you recover from your foot surgery. Whether you need pain medication, supportive footwear, crutches or other items and services to maximize your foot and ankle function, expect a care plan customized to your needs and overall health.
Find out more
Please contact Step Ahead Foot & Ankle Clinic in Kalispell, MT, if you have a foot or ankle problem. Usually, early intervention avoids surgery. Count on Dr. Barnes's expertise and compassionate attitude to guide you in the proper direction. Call today for a consultation: (406) 755-2818.