Foot and ankle surgery refers to an invasive medical procedure used to treat, remove, or repair foot and ankle problems. It is a subspecialty of podiatry and orthopedics that aims to bring long-lasting relief to the crippling symptoms of foot and ankle conditions.
According to research, about 37% of individuals aged 47 and up suffer from disabling foot conditions and 15% from musculoskeletal ankle problems.
These diseases vary from rheumatoid arthritis to post-accident injuries, but all resulted in poor health, specifically:
Most foot and ankle diseases don’t need surgical procedures to be treated. But when basic medical care fails, surgeons can provide a wide spectrum of surgical options to improve foot and ankle function.
At Florida Foot & Ankle Associates, we have podiatric surgeons, also known as DPM (doctor of podiatric medicine), who perform the surgery. They are the only medical specialists licensed and certified to perform foot and ankle surgeries. In addition, both specialties also deal with the diagnosis, treatments, and prevention of foot and ankle conditions.
We serve in South Florida, including the Greater Miami Area, all surrounding Miami-Dade communities as far north as Broward County and Palm Beach County. Do not hesitate to find the doctor's office closest to you. Find your doctor here!
Many foot and ankle injuries and diseases may be cured through non-surgical means, such as steroid and anti-inflammatory drugs, supportive devices, and a series of physical therapies.
However, some illnesses and conditions in advanced stages can only be solved through surgical procedures.
Some of the most common foot and ankle ailments that may need surgery can be divided into four categories:
This includes osteoarthritis, osteochondral lesions of the talus, and some cases of ankle impingement and instability.
Lumps, bumps, and tumor removal in the foot and ankle may require surgery in chronic or malignant cases.
Our foot and ankle surgeons provide various surgical care to treat all kinds of foot and ankle problems, from complex disorders to injuries affecting people of different ages. Some of the most common types of foot and ankle surgery include:
Our doctors perform minimally invasive foot surgery in the Miami area and all surrounding communities to treat and manage foot and ankle conditions. Unlike the traditional surgical approach, this technique uses the latest technology, imaging techniques, and special surgical instruments that allow for smaller incisions, decreased surgical risks, and faster recovery.
Achilles tendon repair refers to a surgical operation used to repair a torn or ruptured Achilles tendon一a fibrous muscle cord that connects the calf to the heel. Additionally, this type of surgery can also be used to treat patients with tendinopathy or tendinitis (degenerating tendons due to overuse).
Also known as ankle arthroplasty, ankle replacement surgery is used to remove damaged ankle joints (parts of the tibia and talus joints) and replace them with artificial metal ones. This procedure helps alleviate the pain and swelling caused by several disorders, such as ankle osteoarthritis.
In fact, studies found that ankle replacement using new types of prosthesis has a 90% success rate in treating end-stage ankle osteoarthritis.
This surgical technique refers to the permanent fusion of joint/s using screws, plates, and nails in either foot or ankle. Fusion surgery is recommended to treat arthritis, facilitate healing from traumatic injuries, or correct deformities like flat feet.
The metatarsal bones pertain to the long bones behind each toe of the foot一the first metatarsal being the one behind the big toe, while the fifth refers to the bones of the little toe.
This surgery involves making a small incision in the affected metatarsal bones. Surgeons will raise and correctly align the bone, then stabilize it using screws or metal pins. Metatarsal surgeries are commonly used to correct a bunion deformity, treat painful ulcerations and calluses at the bottom of the feet, and sometimes treat fractures.
According to research, one of the most common injuries treated in primary care is metatarsal fractures (5-6%), specifically in the fifth metatarsal. Fortunately, some fractures can be cured through ample rest and non-invasive treatment options.
Morton’s neuroma is a condition affecting the balls of your foot up to the web spaces between the toes. This occurs due to the thickening of the tissues in the toes, which can damage the nerves around it.
The surgical procedure is performed as a last resort when other treatments fail. It involves removing the thickened nerves to relieve the intense pain and pressure in the affected area.
Surgeons perform foot reconstructions to restore correct foot anatomy so patients can regain normal function. In addition, it is used to treat foot deformities, major injuries, and other disorders.
Surgical operations serve as a last resort care option for most podiatrists. Doctors decide whether or not a patient should go through surgery by considering these factors.
If you are experiencing any foot and ankle problems, it’s crucial to visit your doctor right away.
You can also schedule an appointment with your trusted specialist who can determine the best treatment plan for your condition. We are always nearby and here to help! Click here and find the doctor’s office closest to you.
If you are wondering where to get foot and ankle surgery, don’t hesitate to contact our doctors at Florida Foot & Ankle Associates. Our caring and compassionate staff will be there to support you every step of the way. From routine foot care to more specialized treatment, our diabetic foot specialists in Miami, Hialeah, Hollywood, and other South Florida locations are trained in new methods and advanced equipment in podiatry.
Also, feel free to visit us in any of our convenient locations:
We operate at most major hospitals in the region, accept just about every insurance plan, and offer a range of payment options. Our quality care comes with a promise: accessibility and affordability!
If you have any questions, contact us or call us at 786-662-3893.
The material contained on this site is for informational purposes only and DOES NOT CONSTITUTE THE PROVIDING OF MEDICAL ADVICE, and is not intended to be a substitute for independent professional medical judgment, advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your health.