When you need foot and ankle surgery, you need the skills of a specialist–a foot and ankle surgeon. Drs. George and Kathy Tjamaloukas at Comprehensive Foot and Ankle Center in Land O’Lakes, FL, provides a full range of podiatry services, including foot and ankle surgery.

The goals of foot and ankle surgery are to provide:

• Permanent pain relief
• Increased mobility without pain
• Improved flexibility when you move
• Increased stability and balance when you are walking or standing
• An easier, more comfortable time wearing shoes

You might need foot and ankle surgery for a variety of reasons. Some of the most common conditions and injuries requiring foot and ankle surgery include:

• Arthritis, for which you might need joint fusion or bone realignment surgery
• Bunions, for which you might need surgery to remove a bunion, known as a bunionectomy
• Diabetes, for which you might need ulcer treatment or amputations
• Plantar Fasciitis, for which you might need surgery to release the affected tendon or ligament
• Foot or ankle fractures, for which you might need reconstruction and realignment of broken or dislocated bones

You will be given instructions before your surgery so that when the time comes for your surgery, it will go smoothly. Typically, you should not eat, drink, or smoke before the surgery. During your foot or ankle surgery, you will probably be sedated, so you will need to bring someone with you who can drive you home after your procedure.

After your surgery, you will need to:

• Rest and elevate the surgery area for at least the first 2 weeks
• Keep your bandage or cast dry after surgery
• Take your medications, including pain medications

You can expect the surgery area to be swollen and tender for up to 3 to 4 months. Your foot and ankle surgeon will tell you when to return for a follow-up appointment, typically after 2 weeks. You should visit your foot and ankle surgeon sooner if you are experiencing:

• Severe foot or ankle pain which isn’t relieved by medications
• A fever and lymph node tenderness in your groin area
• Shortness of breath or chest pain
• A bad reaction to your medications

Foot and ankle surgery can help relieve your pain and get you back on your feet. To find out more about what to expect from foot and ankle surgery, call Drs. George and Kathy Tjamaloukas of Comprehensive Foot and Ankle Center in Land O’Lakes, FL, at (813) 909-0865. Call today.