Foot Surgery: When is it Necessary?
Our feet bear the weight of our entire body and play a crucial role in our mobility. However, various factors can lead to conditions that may require surgical intervention to restore proper function and alleviate pain. CMC Orthopaedics is providing valuable insight to help you explore the situations in which foot surgery becomes necessary while shedding light on the reasons and benefits of opting for surgical solutions.
Common Conditions Requiring Foot Surgery:
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Plantar Fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis is a common condition characterized by heel pain caused by inflammation of the band of tissue (plantar fascia) that supports the arch of your foot. When conservative treatments like physical therapy, stretching, and orthotics don’t alleviate your pain, surgical procedures such as plantar fascia release may be considered to release tension and provide relief.
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Foot Trauma and Fractures
Severe fractures, dislocations, and other traumatic injuries to the foot may necessitate surgical intervention to realign bones, stabilize fractures with hardware, and promote proper healing. Surgery helps prevent long-term complications and restore your foot’s functionality.
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Flat Foot
There are multiple reasons that a flat foot deformity can occur. Arthritis can break down the cartilage and ligaments that support your foot. Injuries can also cause damage to the tendon that supports the arch of your foot, weakening it and resulting in the flattening of the foot. Depending on the cause of the problem, there are various treatment options to correct the deformity including surgery if necessary.
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Ankle Arthritis
Arthritis in the ankle joint can cause pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. When conservative treatments like medications and physical therapy no longer manage your symptoms, ankle fusion (arthrodesis) or ankle replacement surgery might be considered to alleviate pain and enhance your mobility.
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Bunions
Bunions are bony bumps that form on the joint at the base of the big toe, often causing pain and affecting mobility. When non-surgical treatments such as padding, orthotics, and footwear adjustments fail to provide relief, surgery might be recommended. Surgical options include bunionectomy, which involves realigning the bones and correcting the deformity.
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Hammertoes
Hammertoes result from an imbalance in the muscles, causing one or more toes to bend abnormally at the middle joint. In severe cases where hammertoes cause pain, difficulty wearing shoes, or open sores, surgery might be recommended. Surgical correction involves straightening the affected toes and correcting the muscle imbalance.
When is Foot Surgery Necessary?
Foot surgery becomes necessary when conservative treatments are ineffective at addressing painful conditions that impact your mobility and quality of life. It’s important to consult with an orthopedic specialist to determine the most appropriate course of action. While surgery is a significant step, the benefits can be immeasurable.
Benefits of Foot Surgery
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Pain Relief
Foot surgery can provide significant pain relief, enhancing your overall quality of life and enabling you to engage in activities you enjoy without discomfort.
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Improved Mobility
By addressing underlying issues, foot surgery can restore proper function and mobility, allowing you to move more freely and comfortably.
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Enhanced Foot Functionality
Surgical interventions can correct deformities, realign bones, and restore normal foot mechanics, which can prevent further complications and improve your long-term functionality.
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Prevention of Long-term Complications
In cases of traumatic injuries or progressive conditions, timely foot surgery can prevent the development of chronic issues, deformities, and joint damage.
What Orthopedic Doctor Should I See for My Foot Surgery?
The benefits of pain relief, improved mobility, and enhanced functionality make foot surgery a valuable option for those suffering from foot-related issues. Always remember that each case is unique, and a personalized approach is essential to achieving the best possible outcome.
At CMC Orthopaedics, Dr. David Beck is providing successful treatment for a variety of foot and ankle conditions. He understands how important it is for his patients to get back to their daily routines, whether they are professional athletes who want to return to their sport or someone who wants to restore mobility and get back to the game of life. Minimal downtime, maximum mobility, optimal pain relief, and excellent outcomes are Dr. Beck’s goals with every patient.
If you’d like to learn more about the services at CMC Orthopaedics or if you’d like to set an appointment with Dr. Beck, please call 843-347-8041 or request an appointment below.
Dr. David Beck
Fellowship trained in Foot and Ankle at Mercy Medical Center
Dr. David Beck completed his undergraduate education at Amherst College in Massachusetts, where he received a bachelor’s degree in Economics and Psychology and was a starter on the varsity lacrosse team. He earned his medical degree from the New York University School of Medicine in Manhattan, New York. Following medical school, Dr. Beck completed his orthopaedic surgery residency at Thomas Jefferson University Hospital in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania learning from the orthopaedic surgeons from the Rothman Orthopaedic Institute. After residency, he completed a fellowship at the Institute for Foot and Ankle Reconstruction at Mercy Medical Center in Baltimore, Maryland.
