Foot & Ankle

The Achilles tendon, a robust fibrous cord linking calf muscles to the heel bone, plays a vital role in foot movement. Tears, frequently resulting from sports activities or tendonitis, can severely limit mobility, making tasks like walking, jumping, and standing difficult. In such cases, surgery is often recommended, particularly for individuals with active lifestyles seeking to return to strenuous recreational activities.

Osteoarthritis, a degenerative joint disease, often develops with age but can also result from trauma like fractures or dislocations. With over 30 weight-bearing joints, the foot and ankle are particularly vulnerable to developing arthritis, especially the ankle, midfoot, and big toe joints. As cartilage wears away, bones rub together, causing pain, stiffness, and difficulty walking.

Bunions, common foot deformities, often stem from ill-fitting shoes, causing bones in the big toe and foot to misalign, resulting in a painful bump. While nonsurgical options may be tried, surgery may be needed for realignment and pain relief. Various surgical techniques are available, tailored to individual needs.

Acquired flatfoot, or posterior tibial tendon dysfunction, occurs when the ankle tendon is inflamed or torn, often due to sports injuries or overuse. Risk factors include obesity, hypertension, diabetes, and arthritis. Acquired flatfoot is a progressive condition that can eventually lead to a fallen arch or flatfoot. In advanced cases, surgery may be necessary, with various procedures available, sometimes requiring multiple interventions.

The forefoot, housing five metatarsal bones, acts as both a springboard and cushion during movement, distributing weight and maintaining balance. Activities like jumping, dancing, and running increase force on the forefoot, making it prone to fractures from trauma or overuse. Most fractures heal without surgery, with highly successful outcomes for those requiring surgical intervention.

Overall, the foot has 28 bones, including the ankle, heel, midfoot, and toes, which are susceptible to fractures from accidents like falls, sports injuries, or heavy object impacts.

Heel pain is a common complaint due to the immense pressure our heels endure daily. Causes of heel pain include bruising, overuse-related inflammation (plantar fasciitis), and irritated nerves. Pain beneath the heel may result from poorly fitted shoes, inflamed connective tissue (bursitis), or Achilles tendon inflammation. Rest, therapy, medication, proper footwear, and orthotics often alleviate symptoms, with surgery an option for nerve pressure or tendon inflammation.

Plantar fasciitis, a painful foot condition, results from irritation and inflammation of the connective tissue known as the plantar fascia, which runs from the heel to the ball of the foot, supporting the arch. Structural issues like flat feet or high arches, sudden weight gain, obesity, and prolonged standing on hard surfaces contribute to its development.

Morning heel pain is a common symptom. Fortunately, most individuals find relief from symptoms without surgery.

Shin splints refer to pain along the front or lower inside edge of the tibia, often resulting from repeated stress or overuse, causing inflammation of the tibialis muscles and periosteum. Common in athletes engaging in running and jumping sports like basketball or tennis, shin splints are typically due to muscle overuse or improper exercise form. Rest is usually adequate for recovery, with surgery rarely needed for complications.

Toe deformities are common, especially among individuals with conditions like diabetes, osteoarthritis, or rheumatoid arthritis. These deformities often stem from muscle and tendon structural changes over time. Inherited factors, trauma, and ill-fitting shoes also contribute.

Hammertoe, the most prevalent foot deformity, typically affects the second toe, causing it to bend at the middle joint, resembling a hammer. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial as the condition may worsen, sometimes requiring surgery. Other deformities include claw toe and mallet toe.