What Is Podiatric Surgery?
Podiatric surgery is a branch of medicine focused on the surgical treatment of conditions affecting the foot, ankle, and related lower extremity structures. Performed by a podiatric surgeon (a Doctor of Podiatric Medicine, or DPM), these procedures help patients who suffer from chronic pain, injuries, or deformities that haven’t responded to conservative treatments.
Common Conditions Treated with Podiatric Surgery
- Bunions: Misalignment of the big toe joint that can cause pain and swelling.
- Hammertoes: A deformity where a toe becomes bent in a claw-like position.
- Plantar Fasciitis: Inflammation of the tissue along the bottom of the foot, often causing heel pain.
- Heel Spurs: Bony growths that form under the heel bone, often associated with plantar fasciitis.
- Neuromas: Thickened nerve tissue causing pain or tingling, typically between the toes.
- Fractures or Trauma: Surgical repair of broken bones or torn ligaments in the foot or ankle.
- Flatfoot Reconstruction: Correcting fallen arches that cause foot pain and gait problems.
When Is Surgery Necessary?
Podiatric surgery is usually considered after non-surgical options, such as orthotics, physical therapy, medications, or lifestyle changes, fail to provide relief. A podiatrist may recommend surgery if:
- Pain limits daily activity.
- Deformities are worsening.
- Conservative treatments have been exhausted.
- There’s a risk of complications, especially in diabetic patients.
Types of Podiatric Surgical Procedures
- Reconstructive Surgery: Repairs structural abnormalities for better function and alignment.
- Minimally Invasive Surgery (MIS): Uses small incisions and special tools for quicker recovery.
- Arthroscopic Surgery: A camera-assisted method for diagnosing and treating joint issues.
- Soft Tissue Repair: Fixes tendons, ligaments, or nerve-related problems.
- Bone Procedures: Such as osteotomy (cutting and realigning bone) or fusion (joining bones to eliminate motion and pain).
What to Expect During Recovery
Recovery time depends on the procedure, but generally includes:
- Limited weight-bearing activities.
- Use of crutches, a surgical boot, or a cast.
- Follow-up care, including wound checks and physical therapy.
- Gradual return to normal activity over weeks or months.
Final Thoughts
Foot and ankle pain can make even the simplest tasks feel overwhelming. Podiatric surgery, when recommended and performed by an experienced specialist, offers lasting relief and improved function. If conservative treatments haven’t helped, a surgical consultation might be the next best step toward walking pain-free again.