6 Reasons Why You May Need a Foot Surgery

In most instances, foot problems like pain, discomfort, or other issues can be resolved via simple treatments or home remedies. However, in some instances, when the problem is severe and you have exhausted all remedial options without any effect, foot surgery may be inevitable. 

Sometimes a severe foot injury or accident may become the reason why you may need surgery, while in some cases, your sedentary lifestyle may be the cause. In any case, it helps to know the signs and symptoms when foot surgery may be required so you know what to expect. That said, here are six reasons why you may need foot surgery.

Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis is the swelling of the thick band of tissue that runs across the feet's bottom and connects the heel bone to the plantar fascia, the toes. It is one of the most common reasons for heel pain and causes sharp stabbing pain, especially when you take your first steps in the morning. The pain gradually decreases as you move around but may return if you stand for a long period or stand up after sitting.

Plantar Fasciitis results in difficulty when walking. It reduces flexibility, and you may require surgery if the pain persists for six to twelve months and other treatments do not work. 

Foot Problems Due to Diabetes

Foot problems in diabetic patients can sometimes lead to amputation of the lower extremities. Diabetes affects the nervous and circulatory systems and also compromises immunity. This can result in foot ulcers or impaired blood flow, resulting in tissue death and possible amputation. Diabetes also slows down or hinders the healing process and may become the cause of limb or life-threatening wounds which may also lead to amputation.

Arthritis

Arthritis is a collective term used for joint pain or disease and has various types, the most common being osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Individuals from varying age groups, sex, or race can suffer from this condition due to wear and tear, genetics, or aging. It leads to inflexibility and can cause severe pain. In some cases, it may even lead to loss of mobility or joint deformity. 

If the joint symptoms become severe, limiting your mobility and affecting your quality of life, you may need a surgical solution.

Bunions

Bunions refer to the hard bony bumps forming on the joint at the base of your big toe. These occur due to changes in joint alignment when bones in the foot’s front part move out of place. As a result, the big toe’s tip is pulled to the smaller toes forcing the joints at the big toe’s base to protrude out. 

Bunions are usually caused due to uneven weight pressure on the toe joint. They can occur due to wearing shoes that crush the toes together or due to high heels, or they may also result from genetic conditions, rheumatoid arthritis, for instance.

A bunion surgery may hence be required to correct the deformity caused by the bunions and provide pain relief. If left untreated, bunions can increase joint wear and tear and may also cause cartilage breakdown. In some instances, it may lead to a degenerative disease like arthritis. 

Hammer toes

Hammer toes are deformities in the second, third, or fourth toe, whereby the toes may be bent at the middle joint resembling a hammer. Hammer toes may result from using poorly fitted shoes or an imbalance of the muscles or tendons. If caught early, the condition can be prevented from becoming serious. However, if they are left untreated, the condition may become fixed and need surgery for rectification.

Foot or Ankle Fracture

A broken or fractured foot or ankle may result from a sports injury, an accident, or a trauma, implying that the bones in the ankle joint or your foot may be broken. If there is a simple fracture, i.e., a break in a single bone, it may heal without surgery. However, if there are multiple fractures, you may require surgery. If the pain increases when you put weight on it or increase your mobility, you must consult the doctor to discuss your options and get proper treatment. 

Final Thoughts

Most individuals feel apprehensive about surgery, but in some cases, it becomes a necessity. If you feel the same way but suffer from a foot or ankle condition and have exhausted all other treatment options, it is time to consult your doctor and consider surgery.

If you experience severe pain or have a deformity in your foot or ankle that affects your ability to move and your quality of life, surgery may be the best way forward. It will restore or improve your foot function by alleviating your symptoms and providing you relief from the pain and discomfort. If you are suffering from any of the conditions mentioned above or any other issue, seek medical advice today.