Foot and Ankle Surgery FAQ
By Sports Medicine Oregon
- Why do the foot and ankle require specialized orthopaedic care?
- What are the symptoms of foot and ankle damage?
- What foot and ankle conditions does Sports Medicine Oregon treat?
- When is foot or ankle surgery recommended?
- What is the recovery process from foot or ankle surgery?
- Why do the foot and ankle require specialized orthopaedic care?
- What are the symptoms of foot and ankle damage?
- What foot and ankle conditions does Sports Medicine Oregon treat?
- When is foot or ankle surgery recommended?
- What is the recovery process from foot or ankle surgery?
The foot and ankle are anatomically complex, and therefore, require specialized orthopaedic treatment and care. In total, twenty-eight bones and more than thirty joints compose the foot. These components are held in place by strong bands of tissue, called ligaments, which provide support and enable successful movement.
In addition, a range of conditions, including arthritis and traumatic injury, can cause damage to the foot and ankle. Dependent on the symptoms present, the team at Sports Medicine Oregon will determine a best approach for diagnosing and treating the specific damage present.
Although there are numerous conditions and factors associated with foot and ankle damage, common signs of injury include:
• Pain and discomfort
• Stiffness
• Swelling and inflammation
• Redness and/or tenderness of the skin
• Reduced range of motion
• Difficulty in standing or walking
To determine the cause of any symptoms observed, a comprehensive examination will be completed, including both the documentation of a medical history and completion of basic mobility exercises. In addition, an x-ray or other diagnostic test may be required to determine the full extent of present damage. Based on the results of this examination, the orthopaedic team at Sports Medicine Oregon will formally diagnose the condition present and recommend an approach for corrective care.
The team at Sports Medicine Oregon specializes in the care of a range of foot and ankle conditions, as associated with both progressive wear-and-tear and traumatic injuries. Damage types frequently treated include, but are not limited to:
• Bone spurs
• Plantar fasciitis
• Stress fractures
• Achilles tendinitis
In addition to working to alleviate any symptoms present, the orthopaedic team will provide guidance on achieving ongoing relief and avoiding re-injury, including methods for treatment of both osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.
Surgery to the foot and/or ankle is typically recommended only in cases of severe injury, or after non-invasive efforts fail. If symptoms are not relieved by rest, the use of anti-inflammatory medications, and like methods, surgical intervention may be recommended. Common operation types include:
• Arthroscopic debridement
• Arthrodesis (joint fusion)
• Arthroplasty (joint replacement)
Whenever possible arthroscopic, or other minimally invasive techniques, will be used. Frequently reported benefits to arthroscopy are decreased cutting and blood loss, which enable faster recovery times and reduced post-op pain.
Following foot and/or ankle surgery, anti-inflammatory and pain medications will typically be prescribed to alleviate post-op discomfort, especially during the initial weeks of recovery. Most patients are required to rest and keep the treated foot elevated for up to two weeks.
Once basic physical activities, such as standing or walking are resumed, crutches or orthotics will likely be recommended to avoid placing detrimental pressure on the foot and ankle. In most cases, it will be three to four months before everyday activities can be successfully resumed, and a total of four to nine months before full recovery is achieved.
To ensure successful recovery, it is important to undertake all physical therapy efforts prescribed. A gradual approach to rebuilding flexibility and strength will be encouraged, and the team at Sports Medicine Oregon should be consulted before any specific activities are resumed.
Likewise, while the risks associated with minimally invasive surgery are minimal, any concerns should be reported to a medical professional immediately.
To learn more about the arthroscopic offerings of Sports Medicine Oregon, contact the Tigard, OR practice at (503) 692-8700.
