Surgery for a foot or ankle condition is typically only considered when more conservative treatments fail to provide the relief that a patient needs – or it is clear from the start that attempting such treatments would only waste a patient’s time and comfort.
If the idea of the surgery gives you fear or worry, you are far from alone. There is not only the procedure itself to think about, but the length and needs of recovery as well.
Fortunately, foot and ankle surgery has advanced significantly over time and continues to do so every day. Many procedures are becoming less and less invasive, meaning less discomfort and shorter recovery times.
At Foot Specialists of Long Island, our goal is to provide every patient considering surgery the relief they need with as little inconvenience as possible. The sooner we can get you back to doing the things you love without pain and other symptoms holding you back, the better!
When Foot or Ankle Surgery May Be Necessary
Dr. Gasparini and Dr. Chhabra not only have many years of experience successfully seeing patients through a wide variety of surgical procedures, but they also provide expert guidance on whether surgery is necessary or other options may be pursued instead.
Some of the most common categories of foot and ankle surgery performed include:
Bunion Surgery
A bunion or tailor’s bunion can often be managed with conservative means, but there are times when one may be so severe or interfere so much with daily living that surgery may be necessary to provide relief.
There are many types of bunion surgery, depending on the state of the deformity and needs of the patient. Some procedures involve realigning the shifted bones of the joint, sometimes including making cuts to the bone as well. Others involve the fusion of the joint.
Bunion surgery is seldom performed for purely cosmetic reasons. There almost always must be a physical need to relieve symptoms or provide relief to consider a procedure.
Hammertoe Surgery
Surgery to correct a hammertoe may involve releasing or adjusting the tendons, or cutting and removing bone.
Much like bunion surgery, hammertoe procedures are rarely performed only to make the toes “look better.” Often, there is a present need to relieve ongoing pain, sores, and other symptoms.
Other Forefoot Surgery
Aside from bunion and hammertoe procedures, other forms of surgery that may be recommended in the forefoot include:
- Procedures to remove neuromas at the base of the toes
- Procedures to relieve pain and stiffness from arthritic conditions
- Procedures to address specialized sprains, fractures, or dislocations to the Lisfranc joint complex
Traumatic Injuries
Injuries such as sprains and fractures do not always need surgical attention, but severe traumatic injuries that involve ruptured tendons or largely shifted fractures of bone might require surgery for a full repair.
Bone Spurs
Spurs are protrusions of deposited calcium that can develop on the bones in places that receive excess stress – the heel bone being a common location. Most bone spurs are harmless (you likely won’t even know they exist), but might require surgical removal if they develop in a location that causes pain.
Comprehensive Care Before, During, and After Surgery
If surgery is recommended for your needs, you will always have the final say in whether to move forward with a procedure or not. We will happily discuss all your options, including what to expect in terms of recovery time and challenges, and answer all questions you may have.
Surgical care does not stop once you are out of the operating room, either. We will provide advice and check-ups throughout your recovery, helping to ensure there are no complications toward getting you back to full strength and activity.
If you believe surgery might be in your future, do not let potential worries keep you from finding the help you need. Remember that many conditions that look like surgery are the only option can still benefit from conservative treatments instead! And if surgery is the best option, our doctors will keep your concerns and best interests first in mind.
Schedule an appointment with Foot Specialists of Long Island by calling our office or filling out our online contact form.