Making the decision about whether to undergo foot surgery is a difficult and highly personalized process. In consultation with a podiatrist and surgeon, you can receive the information you need to make an informed decision. Generally speaking, if you notice that a foot affliction you have is causing your skin to react negatively or your foot to become deformed, foot surgery might be a good option for you. Additionally, if you notice that your affliction is not responding to any medication your podiatrist has prescribed or any orthotics you might be wearing, then foot surgery might be a suitable last resort. There are a variety of conditions that may ultimately merit surgery. For example, particularly bad cases of Morton’s neuroma might require foot surgery. Specifically, the nerve that is affected between the toes because of Morton’s neuroma, may be successfully removed by foot surgery. Of course, foot surgery can also create detrimental consequences in some cases. There may be complications as a result of the surgery or your joint movement may be restricted. Alternatives to surgery might include performing specific exercises or adjusting footwear. You can make this difficult decision about undergoing surgery with the guidance and advice of your podiatrist.
Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact Dr. Ronald Sheppard of Warren-Watchung Podiatry Center. Our doctor 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 one of our offices located in Marlboro and Watchung, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
