Foot and ankle surgery is generally viewed as a last-resort procedure. In most cases, therapy and medications can suffice in keeping things under control. This is true of arthritis symptoms, even if they feel severe. However, sometimes worse may come to worst, and surgery may be the only option to help you feel better.
It can be scary to think about. No surgical procedure is completely free of risk. However, if you have a competent team by your side, the prospect of surgery becomes much less frightening. At Beyond Podiatry, our offices are staffed by podiatric experts that can evaluate your condition and determine if foot and ankle surgery is your best option.
When reviewing your case, our staff will likely look for several telling signs. These will inform their decision and prepare them to provide you with the best care possible. Below are a few indications that surgery may be the option for you. If you’re interested in learning more, we welcome you to schedule a consultation at a nearby Beyond Podiatry location.
Severe and Constant Pain in the Feet and Ankles
While medication can help manage pain to a certain degree, there may come a time when it’s no longer effective. Chronic foot and ankle pain, experiencing a lot of pain with motion, and having pain that causes a limp may all indicate that it’s time for surgery. Increased pain and swelling in the morning is another red flag to watch out for.
These issues can all develop as part of arthritis. However, conditions like hammertoe and bunions can cause severe pain as well. Moreover, pain can be accompanied by swelling, tenderness, and redness. If you experience any of these issues on a regular basis, then foot and ankle surgery may be necessary.
Arthritis as the Cause for Foot and Ankle Surgery
Arthritis is a progressive illness that tends to get worse over time. There are three types of arthritis that can affect the ankles specifically. These are:
- Osteoarthritis – In this form of arthritis, the cartilage in the joint gradually wears away. This results in bone rubbing against bone and often causes painful osteophytes (bone spurs).
- Rheumatoid arthritis – This type of arthritis is classified as an autoimmune disease. In this case, immune cells attack the synovium covering the joint, causing it to swell. Over time, the synovium invades and damages the bone and cartilage, as well as the ligaments and tendons, often causing serious joint deformity and disability.
- Posttraumatic arthritis – This type of arthritis can develop after an injury to the foot or ankle. In some cases, it doesn’t show up for many years after the initial injury.
In all of these cases, the pain may be severe enough to warrant surgical intervention. The good news is that foot and ankle surgery will not only alleviate the pain, it will also improve your stability, improve your movement, and correct any deformities you may be struggling with.
Find The Right Surgeon for Your Foot and Ankle Surgery
Finding the right surgeon is never an easy endeavor. You can spend months scouring the internet in search of an expert to tend to your needs. All the while, your ankle and foot pain may be getting worse. At Beyond Podiatry, we make things simple. Our group has offices in Michigan, Kentucky, and Illinois.
Each location is staffed by experts dedicated to giving you the best care possible. If you’re ready to find your doctor, we welcome you to schedule an appointment at a location near you today.