Best Foot Forward

Understanding Different Types Of Surgeries For Feet

Living Magazine

Foot surgery encompasses a variety of procedures aimed at alleviating pain, correcting deformities, and restoring function. These surgeries address issues ranging from chronic conditions like arthritis to acute injuries. Here, we explore some of the most common types of foot surgeries.

BUNION SURGERY(HALLUX VALGUS CORRECTION)

Bunions are bony bumps that form on the joint at the base of the big toe. They can cause significant pain and discomfort, often necessitating surgical intervention. Bunion surgery involves realigning the bones, tendons, and ligaments to restore the toe to its correct position. Various techniques exist, such as osteotomy, where the bone is cut and repositioned, or arthrodesis, which involves fusing the bones together.

HAMMERTOE SURGERY

A hammertoe is a deformation where a toe bends downward at the middle joint, resembling a hammer. This condition can cause pain and difficulty walking.Hammertoe surgery typically involves removing part of the bone and realigning the joint, or in severe cases, fusing the joint. Tendon transfer or tendon lengthening might also be performed to correct muscle imbalance.

PLANTAR FASCIITIS SURGERY

Plantar fasciitis is a common cause of heel pain, resulting from inflammation of the plantar fascia, the ligament connecting the heel bone to the toes. When conservative treatments fail, surgery might be necessary. Surgical options include plantar fascia release, where part of the ligament is cut to relieve tension, or removal of heel spurs if present.

ANKLE ARTHROSCOPY

Ankle arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgery used to diagnose and treat various ankle conditions. Small incisions are made to insert a camera and instruments, allowing the surgeon to address issues like cartilage damage, loose fragments, or inflammation. This procedure is often used for conditions such as ankle arthritis, chronic instability, or impingement.

ACHILLES TENDON REPAIR

The Achilles tendon connects the calf muscles to the heel bone and is crucial for walking and running. Injuries to this tendon, such as tears or ruptures, may require surgical intervention. Achilles tendon repair involves stitching the torn tendon back together. In chronic cases, the surgeon might use tendon grafts to strengthen the repair.

METATARSAL SURGERY

The metatarsal bones are located in the middle of the foot, and surgery might be needed to address fractures, deformities, or conditions like metatarsalgia (pain in the ball of the foot). Procedures can include realigning the bones, removing damaged tissue, or shortening or lengthening the metatarsal bones to relieve pressure and pain.

NEUROMA SURGERY

A neuroma, such as Morton’s neuroma, is a painful condition involving nerve tissue growth, usually between the third and fourth toes. Surgery to remove the affected nerve can provide relief when other treatments fail. The procedure involves excising the nerve or releasing the surrounding tissue to reduce pressure on the nerve.

FLATFOOT RECONSTRUCTION

Flatfoot, or fallen arches, can lead to pain and mobility issues. Surgical options for flatfoot reconstruction include tendon transfers, osteotomies (bone cutting and repositioning), and fusions. These procedures aim to restore the arch and improve foot function.