There are various foot conditions that will improve with medications and orthotics. For some patients, these types of treatments are not sufficient enough to provide complete relief. Foot surgery may be an option for some foot ailments, such as bunions and hammertoe. A bunion is a bony protrusion that develops on the side of the big toe, and in severe cases, may cause the other toes to shift toward each other. Surgery is performed by cutting the bones and realigning them into their natural position. The bunion is removed by repositioning the big toe joint which can make it easier to walk. The scar is located on the side of the foot, which makes it less visible. Hammertoe is a deformity that causes the joints in the middle toes to bend downward. Surgery can be successfully performed by straightening the toes which can reduce the pressure that is put on the front of the foot. Rheumatoid arthritis may cause flat feet in adults, and surgery may be necessary to reduce or eliminate existing pain completely. If you are experiencing specific foot conditions that are not improving with medication, please consult with a podiatrist who can determine if foot surgery is a viable option for you.

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact one of our podiatrists of Family Foot Care. Our doctors will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

When Is Surgery Necessary?

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 offices located in Valatie and Albany, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.