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COMPREHENSIVE GUIDE TO FOOT AND ANKLE TREATMENTS

Understanding the available treatments for foot and ankle conditions can help you find relief from pain, regain mobility, and live an active life. Orthopaedic surgeons can offer accurate diagnoses and treatment for various conditions such as ankle pain, heel pain, midfoot pain, toe pain, diabetic foot problems, and more.


This guide will cover various foot and ankle conditions, including their common causes, symptoms, and treatments. We'll discuss the wide range of treatment and recovery options available with an orthopaedic surgeon (including surgical and non-surgical treatments), preventative foot and ankle care, and when to seek professional help.


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FOOT AND ANKLE TREATMENTS AND RECOVERY WITH AN ORTHOPAEDIC SURGEON               

Foot and ankle orthopaedic surgeons specialize in treating a wide range of issues related to the musculoskeletal system, both surgically and non-surgically. They are medical doctors with extensive education and training to diagnose and treat conditions such as ankle sprains, toe pain, arthritis, and stress fractures. These expert physicians will work with you to determine the best treatment plan to reduce your foot or ankle pain and improve your mobility.

 


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FOOT AND ANKLE PAIN TREATMENT OPTIONS

Foot and ankle pain can be debilitating and have a significant impact on overall well-being. It's vital to receive proper diagnosis and treatment for these conditions to have a successful recovery and to prevent further complications. Fortunately, there are numerous treatment options to explore, and an experienced foot and ankle orthopaedic surgeon can provide expert guidance and personalized care for your specific needs. From nonsurgical approaches like medication, orthotics, and physical therapy, to advanced surgical procedures such as joint replacement or fusion surgery, minimally invasive surgery, and reconstructive surgery, there's a range of options to address your concerns.

NONSURGICAL TREATMENTS

Below, we will explore the various types of nonsurgical treatment options frequently recommended by orthopaedic surgeons. These options may include medication, immobilization, or shoe changes.


  • Medications (Anti-inflammatory Drugs, Corticosteroids) —Anti-inflammatory pain medication can effectively reduce pain and decrease swelling.
  • Physical Therapy and Exercises—Targeted exercises and stretches can enhance strength and flexibility and alleviate foot or ankle issues.
  • Orthotics and Shoe Modifications—Orthotics or other specialized custom devices can be worn inside shoes to provide support and pain relief. Additionally, your surgeon may recommend changing to proper-fitting shoes that do not constrict your feet.
  • Ice, Compression, and Elevation Techniques—After injuring your foot, it may be recommended that you elevate it while resting to minimize swelling and discomfort. Ice can also provide relief in certain situations. You might need to refrain from putting weight on the foot and adjust your activities to lower-impact ones.
  • Immobilization (Braces, Splints, Casting) — In some cases, limiting movement of the foot or ankle with a brace, splint, or cast may be the best nonsurgical treatment option.

SURGICAL TREATMENTS

When a foot and ankle orthopaedic surgeon concludes that surgery is the best course of action, there are several procedures to consider. Some common and effective surgical treatments include big toe fusion surgery, minimally invasive bunion surgery, ankle fracture surgery, flatfoot surgery, and ankle replacement surgery.


  • Big Toe Joint Fusion Surgery —Big toe fusion surgery effectively treats arthritis in the first MTP (big toe) joint, providing pain relief and improved stability.
  • Bunion Surgery (Bunionectomy) —Minimally invasive bunion surgery, performed by an orthopaedic surgeon, corrects a bunion through small incisions using specialized instruments for bone cutting and fixation.
  • Ankle Fracture Surgery — Foot and ankle orthopaedic surgeons perform ankle fracture surgery to put the ankle joint back in place and stabilize the bones for healing.
  • Flatfoot Surgery —Surgery for flatfoot deformity involves correcting a collapsed arch of the foot by repairing the bones, ligaments, and tendons that support the arch.
  • Ankle Replacement Surgery — In an ankle replacement surgery, a foot and ankle orthopaedic surgeon replaces an arthritic ankle joint with an artificial implant made of metal and plastic. The goal of the surgery is to provide pain relief while preserving the motion of the ankle.

PREVENTIVE FOOT AND ANKLE CARE

Avoid injury and maintain healthy, active feet through preventative foot and ankle care. Try incorporating these care strategies into your routine to help your feet and ankles stay strong and pain free:


  • Wear proper footwear with adequate support and cushioning to minimize strain on your feet and ankles.
  • Add warm-up exercises, such as stretching and light cardiovascular activity, into your routine to prepare your muscles and ligaments for physical activity and reduce the risk of pain and injury.
  • Pace yourself during physical activities to avoid overuse, and make sure to allow for adequate rest and recovery after activity.
  • Schedule regular check-ups with a healthcare professional to identify any issues early on, enabling timely intervention and treatment to prevent the development of chronic foot and ankle conditions.

 WHEN TO SEEK PROFESSIONAL CARE

You may feel unsure about when to seek medical advice or symptoms that are cause for concern. It's important to consult a healthcare professional if you experience persistent or severe pain, swelling, or difficulty with movement.. Additionally, it's best to head to the emergency room if you've sustained an injury and are dealing with severe pain and swelling. If you have any of the above symptoms, reach out to an orthopaedic surgeon for a comprehensive evaluation and the best treatment options. Your health and well-being are the priority!

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COMMON FOOT AND ANKLE CONDITIONS

Some common causes of foot and ankle problems include overuse, ”wear and tear” on your joints over time, poorly fitting shoes, and injury. Medical conditions, such as osteoarthritis, nerve damage, and flat feet, can also contribute to issues with your foot and ankle. If you're experiencing foot or ankle pain, injury, or other symptoms, consult a foot and ankle orthopaedic surgeon to receive a professional diagnosis as soon as possible.


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Explore our complete list of foot and ankle treatments and procedures, including non-surgical and surgical options:

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The American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society (AOFAS) offers information on this site as an educational service. The content of FootCareMD, including text, images, and graphics, is for informational purposes only. The content is not intended to substitute for professional medical advice, diagnoses or treatments. If you need medical advice, use the "Find a Surgeon " search to locate a foot and ankle orthopaedic surgeon in your area.