Hammertoe surgery aims to correct deformities where a toe bends abnormally at the middle joint. Types of surgery include tendon transfer, where a tendon is rerouted to pull the toe into the correct position, and joint resection, which involves removing part of the joint to straighten the toe. Fusion surgery permanently joins the bones in the affected joint, ensuring the toe remains straight. While these procedures can effectively alleviate pain and improve function, they carry potential risks. Complications may include infection, nerve damage, and prolonged swelling. Additionally, there is a possibility of stiffness or recurrence of the deformity. Consulting with a podiatrist ensures a thorough understanding of the benefits and risks. If you are considering surgery for this condition, it is suggested that you consult with this type of doctor who can determine if this is a right decision for you.

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact one of our podiatrists of Suncoast Podiatry Associates. Our doctors 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 Ocala, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Experiencing pain on the top of the foot is a common issue among runners and active individuals. One cause of this discomfort is extensor tendonitis, an inflammation of the extensor tendons responsible for lifting and straightening the toes. These tendons are vulnerable to injury because they lack protection from bones, muscles, or fatty tissue. Factors that place undue stress on the tendons include tight calf muscles, overtraining without adequate rest, and wearing improperly fitting shoes. Symptoms of extensor tendonitis include pain on the top of the foot during movement, swelling, and sometimes a visible bump along the tendon. Adjusting the way you lace your shoes can help to alleviate pressure on the top of the foot. If pain persists, it may indicate conditions, such as metatarsal stress fractures, atypical gout, or degenerative arthritis. Proper diagnosis from a podiatrist can address the root cause of the pain. If you are experiencing pain on top of the foot, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and treatment options.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from Suncoast Podiatry Associates. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Bunions
• Hammertoes
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Bone Spurs
• Corns
• Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
• Ingrown Toenails
• Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
• Flat Feet
• Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
• And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Ocala, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Congenital foot deformities are structural abnormalities present at birth that affect the shape and function of an infant's feet. Metatarsus adductus is characterized by the inward curvature of the front half of the foot, resulting in a C shape and often causing difficulty in fitting shoes. Clubfoot involves a twisted position where the foot points downward and inward, leading to difficulties in walking if untreated. Calcaneovalgus deformity presents as an upward and outward bending of the foot, which can cause a flatfoot appearance and limited mobility. Additionally, congenital vertical talus, a more severe condition, results in a rigid rocker-bottom foot, where the sole faces outward and the arch is absent. Symptoms of these deformities include abnormal foot positioning, restricted movement, and, as the child grows, potential pain and walking difficulties. If your child has a congenital foot condition, it is suggested that you include a podiatrist on your healthcare team to help manage the specific ailment.

Some foot conditions may require additional professional care. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Suncoast Podiatry Associates. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Rare Foot Conditions

The majority of foot conditions are common and can be treated by a podiatrist.  Standard diagnostic procedures are generally used to identify specific conditions and treatment can be rendered. A podiatrist also treats rare foot conditions which can be difficult to diagnose and may need extra attention and care. 

There are many rare foot conditions that can affect children. Some of these can include:

• Freiberg’s disease
• Kohler’s disease
• Maffucci syndrome

Freiberg’s disease - This can be seen as a deterioration and flattening of a metatarsal bone that exists in the ball of the foot. It typically affects pre-teen and teenage girls, but can affect anyone at any age. Symptoms that can accompany this can be swelling, stiffness, and the patient may limp. 

Kohler’s disease - This often targets the bone in the arch of the foot and affects younger boys. It can lead to an interruption of the blood supply which ultimately can lead to bone deterioration. The patient may limp or experience tenderness, swelling, and redness.

Maffucci syndrome - This affects the long bones in a child’s foot leading to the development of abnormal bone lesions. They are benign growths and typically develop in early childhood and the bones may be susceptible to breaking. 

A podiatrist can properly diagnose and treat all types of rare foot conditions. If your child is affected by any of these symptoms or conditions, please don’t hesitate to call our office so the correct treatment method can begin.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Ocala, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.