Foot Problems That May Require Surgery
Our feet carry us through life, but we often don't give them much thought until something goes wrong. Foot pain is incredibly common and can significantly impact your mobility and quality of life. While many foot issues can be managed with conservative treatments like rest, physical therapy, or supportive footwear, some conditions may require surgical intervention to provide lasting relief and restore function.
Understanding when surgery might be necessary can help you make informed decisions about your health. This guide will walk you through some of the most common foot problems that could lead you to an orthopedic surgeon. We'll explore the symptoms of each condition and explain why surgery might be the most effective treatment option.
Bunions (Hallux Valgus)
A bunion is a bony bump that forms at the base of the big toe. It occurs when some of the bones in the front part of your foot shift out of place, causing the tip of your big toe to be pulled toward the smaller toes. This forces the joint at the base of your big toe to stick out.
Symptoms of Bunions
- A visible bulge on the outside of the base of your big toe
- Swelling, redness, or soreness around your big toe joint
- Corns or calluses, often where the first and second toes rub against each other
- Persistent or intermittent pain
- Restricted movement of your big toe
When is Surgery Recommended?
Surgery is typically recommended for bunions when conservative treatments have failed to relieve pain and the bunion interferes with your daily activities. If you experience significant pain that limits your ability to walk or wear reasonable shoes, an orthopedic surgeon might suggest a procedure called a bunionectomy. This surgery aims to realign the bone, ligaments, tendons, and nerves so your big toe can be brought back to its correct position.
Plantar Fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain. It involves 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. The pain is often most intense with the first few steps after waking up.
Symptoms of Plantar Fasciitis
- Stabbing pain near the heel, which may be worse in the morning
- Pain that increases after, but not usually during, exercise
- Dull or sharp pain in the arch of the foot
When is Surgery Recommended?
Over 90% of people with plantar fasciitis improve within 10 months of starting simple, non-surgical treatment methods like stretching, physical therapy, and orthotics. However, for the small percentage of patients who don't respond to these treatments after 6 to 12 months, surgery might be an option. A plantar fascia release involves cutting part of the plantar fascia ligament to relieve tension and inflammation.
Hammertoe
Hammertoe is a deformity that causes a toe to bend or curl downward instead of pointing forward. This condition can affect any toe on your foot, but it most often affects the second or third toe. Hammertoe occurs due to an imbalance in the muscles, tendons, or ligaments that normally hold the toe straight.
Symptoms of Hammertoe
- A toe that is bent at the middle joint, resembling a hammer
- Pain or irritation when wearing shoes
- Corns and calluses on top of the middle joint of the hammertoe or on the tip of the toe
- Swelling or redness
- In severe cases, open sores may form
When is Surgery Recommended?
If the affected toe is still flexible, your doctor might recommend conservative measures like changing your footwear or using shoe inserts. However, if the hammertoe becomes rigid and fixed in its bent position, or if you have significant pain that doesn’t improve, surgery may be necessary. An orthopedic surgeon can perform procedures to release the tendon that's preventing the toe from straightening or, in more severe cases, remove a piece of bone to realign the toe.
Achilles Tendon Disorders
The Achilles tendon is the largest tendon in the body, connecting your calf muscles to your heel bone. It's used when you walk, run, and jump. Achilles tendon issues range from inflammation (tendinitis) to a partial or complete tear (rupture).
Symptoms of Achilles Tendon Issues
- Pain and stiffness along the Achilles tendon in the morning
- Severe pain along the back of your foot after exercising
- Thickening of the tendon
- A sudden, sharp "pop" in the back of the ankle or calf, which may signal a rupture
When is Surgery Recommended?
Surgery for Achilles tendinitis is considered only when pain does not improve after at least six months of nonsurgical treatment. For a ruptured Achilles tendon, the decision between surgical and nonsurgical treatment is more complex. While nonsurgical treatment can be effective, surgery is often recommended for active individuals as it may lower the risk of the tendon re-rupturing and can result in greater strength. An orthopedic surgeon can repair the torn tendon, helping to restore function and power.
Ankle Arthritis
Ankle arthritis is the degeneration of the cartilage in the ankle joint, which leads to pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. While less common than knee or hip arthritis, it can be just as debilitating. It's often caused by a previous injury to the ankle.
Symptoms of Ankle Arthritis
- Pain and tenderness in the ankle joint, especially with movement
- Stiffness and reduced range of motion
- Swelling around the joint
- Difficulty walking or bearing weight
When is Surgery Recommended?
When ankle arthritis pain becomes severe and significantly limits your activities, surgery may be the best path forward. Surgical options include:
- Ankle fusion (arthrodesis): This procedure involves fusing the bones of the ankle joint into one solid piece. It can effectively relieve pain but eliminates the ankle's up-and-down motion.
- Total ankle replacement (arthroplasty): In this surgery, the damaged bone and cartilage are replaced with artificial joint components. This procedure relieves pain while preserving more of the ankle's natural movement.
An orthopedic surgeon can help you decide which procedure is right for you based on your age, activity level, and the severity of the arthritis.
Find Your Path to Pain-Free Movement
Living with persistent foot or ankle pain can be a major obstacle to enjoying your life. While conservative treatments are always the first line of defense, surgery can offer a definitive solution for many chronic and debilitating foot problems. Recognizing the signs that may point toward a surgical need is the first step in regaining your mobility.
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms and are looking for an expert opinion, it may be time to consult with a specialist. An experienced orthopedic surgeon can provide an accurate diagnosis and discuss all available treatment options with you. If you're looking for an orthopedic surgeon in Orange City, FL, contact Central Florida Bone & Joint Institute today for more information and to schedule a consultation.