The toes can have a variety of issues that may require surgery. These issues include deformities, pain in the joints, and pain in the ball of the foot. When the tendons that help the toes move get too tight or out of balance, or when there is arthritis in the toes, they can move out of position and deform. Alternatives to surgery for toe related issues include wearing orthotics, strapping and padding the toes, and wearing comfortable shoes with a wide toe box. Surgery will help straighten out the toes. Depending on the cause of your problem, your surgeon’s options to straighten out the toes include releasing or lengthening tendons, putting joints back in place, removing bone, stiffening joints or realigning the toes. If you have any issues with your toes that you believe may require surgery, consulting with a podiatrist to find the correct treatment options is highly recommended.
Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact Scott Matthews, DPM, MD of Salem Foot Care . Our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.
When Is Surgery Necessary?
Foot and ankle surgery is generally reserved for cases in which less invasive, conservative procedures have failed to alleviate the problem. Some of the cases in which surgery may be necessary include:
- Removing foot deformities like bunions and bone spurs
- Severe arthritis that has caused bone issues
- Cosmetic reconstruction
What Types of Surgery Are There?
The type of surgery you receive will depend on the nature of the problem you have. Some of the possible surgeries include:
- Bunionectomy for painful bunions
- Surgical fusion for realignment of bones
- Neuropathy decompression surgery to treat nerve damage
Benefits of Surgery
Although surgery is usually a last resort, it can provide more complete pain relief compared to non-surgical methods and may allow you to finally resume full activity.
Surgical techniques have also become increasingly sophisticated. Techniques like endoscopic surgery allow for smaller incisions and faster recovery times.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Wikesboro, NC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.