A bunion is a bony bump that forms at the base of the big toe as the top of toe to angles inward toward the other smaller toes. This deformity often results from inherited foot structure, wearing improper footwear, or medical conditions like arthritis. Over time, bunions can lead to pain, swelling, and difficulty walking. When conservative treatments fail to relieve symptoms, bunion surgery may be recommended to correct the alignment and relieve discomfort. Recovery from bunion surgery involves rest, elevation, and wearing a special shoe to protect the foot during healing. Swelling may last for several weeks, and, with proper care, most individuals can return to normal activities. If you have a bunion that is causing you pain, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can determine if this type of foot surgery is right for you.
Foot and ankle surgery is generally reserved for cases in which less invasive, conservative procedures have failed to alleviate the problem. Some of the cases in which surgery may be necessary include:
Removing foot deformities like bunions and bone spurs
Severe arthritis that has caused bone issues
Cosmetic reconstruction
What Types of Surgery Are There?
The type of surgery you receive will depend on the nature of the problem you have. Some of the possible surgeries include:
Bunionectomy for painful bunions
Surgical fusion for realignment of bones
Neuropathy decompression surgery to treat nerve damage
Benefits of Surgery
Although surgery is usually a last resort, it can provide more complete pain relief compared to non-surgical methods and may allow you to finally resume full activity.
Surgical techniques have also become increasingly sophisticated. Techniques like endoscopic surgery allow for smaller incisions and faster recovery times.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Key West, FL. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
A broken heel bone, or calcaneus fracture, is a serious foot injury that often results from high-impact trauma, such as falling from a height or being in a car accident. In some cases, athletes who engage in repetitive stress, like long-distance running, may develop a stress fracture in the heel. Signs of a broken heel bone include intense heel pain, swelling, bruising, and an inability to walk. A podiatrist will perform a thorough exam, which may include imaging tests, to determine the severity of the fracture. If the bone fragments remain in proper position, casting and immobilization may be sufficient. However, when the bone is significantly displaced or if the fracture is open, surgery may be necessary. This typically involves repositioning the bone and securing it with plates and screws. In the most severe cases, a fusion between the heel and ankle bones may be required to stabilize the foot. If you have extreme heel pain and fear it may be broken, it is suggested that you make an immediate appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and appropriate treatment.
Heel pain is often associated with plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a band of tissues that extends along the bottom of the foot. A rip or tear in this ligament can cause inflammation of the tissue.
Achilles tendonitis is another cause of heel pain. Inflammation of the Achilles tendon will cause pain from fractures and muscle tearing. Lack of flexibility is also another symptom.
Heel spurs are another cause of pain. When the tissues of the plantar fascia undergo a great deal of stress, it can lead to ligament separation from the heel bone, causing heel spurs.
Why Might Heel Pain Occur?
Wearing ill-fitting shoes
Wearing non-supportive shoes
Weight change
Excessive running
Treatments
Heel pain should be treated as soon as possible for immediate results. Keeping your feet in a stress-free environment will help. If you suffer from Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, applying ice will reduce the swelling. Stretching before an exercise like running will help the muscles. Using all these tips will help make heel pain a condition of the past.
If you have any questions please contact our office located in Key West, FL. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
An ankle sprain occurs when the ligaments that support the joint are overstretched or torn, often as a result of twisting the foot awkwardly or rolling the ankle during activity. These ligaments help prevent excessive motion, and, when injured, they can lead to pain, swelling, and bruising. Some people may also notice warmth, redness, or tingling in the area, in addition to reduced movement and difficulty walking or climbing stairs. The severity of an ankle sprain can range from a minor stretch to a complete tear, and this will affect how long it takes for the ankle to recover. Symptoms may not appear immediately and can develop over several days. A podiatrist can examine your ankle to determine the extent of the injury and recommend the appropriate treatment. In some cases, surgery may be needed if the ligament has ruptured. Prompt care can also help prevent long-term problems, such as chronic instability or repeated sprains. If you have sprained an ankle, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and treatment as quickly as possible.
Ankle sprains are common but need immediate attention. If you need your feet checked, contact Robert Hutchison, DPM, FACFAS from Lower Keys Foot & Ankle Surgery. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?
Ankle sprains take place when the ligaments in your ankle are torn or stretched beyond their limits. There are multiple ways that the ankle can become injured, including twisting or rolling over onto your ankle, putting undue stress on it, or causing trauma to the ankle itself.
What Are the Symptoms?
Mild to moderate bruising
Limited mobility
Swelling
Discoloration of the skin (depending on severity)
Preventing a Sprain
Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
Stretching before exercises and sports
Knowing your limits
Treatment of a Sprain
Treatment of a sprain depends on the severity. Many times, people are told to rest and remain off their feet completely, while others are given an air cast. If the sprain is very severe, surgery may be required.
If you have suffered an ankle sprain previously, you may want to consider additional support such as a brace and regular exercises to strengthen the ankle.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Key West, FL. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Gout is a form of arthritis that often affects the feet. The joint of the big toe is the most common site, but the ankles and midfoot can also be affected. Gout develops when uric acid builds up in the blood and forms sharp crystals in the joints, leading to sudden, intense pain, swelling, and redness. These gout symptoms often come on quickly, frequently at night, and may reach peak severity within a day. Gout attacks, termed flare-ups, usually resolve within a week, but without treatment, the condition often returns and can affect multiple joints over time. Risk factors for gout include being overweight, having high blood pressure or diabetes, and consuming foods and drinks high in purines, such as red meat and beer. Repeated attacks may lead to hard crystal deposits called tophi, which can permanently damage bone and joint tissue. A podiatrist can help confirm a diagnosis of gout and provide treatment to manage its symptoms and prevent further joint damage. If you have symptoms of gout, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and effective treatment solutions.
Gout is a type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid in the bloodstream. It often develops in the foot, especially the big toe area, although it can manifest in other parts of the body as well. Gout can make walking and standing very painful and is especially common in diabetics and the obese.
People typically get gout because of a poor diet. Genetic predisposition is also a factor. The children of parents who have had gout frequently have a chance of developing it themselves.
Gout can easily be identified by redness and inflammation of the big toe and the surrounding areas of the foot. Other symptoms include extreme fatigue, joint pain, and running high fevers. Sometimes corticosteroid drugs can be prescribed to treat gout, but the best way to combat this disease is to get more exercise and eat a better diet.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Key West, FL. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
