Foot and ankle problems can be extremely painful and debilitating. As a result, everyday lives are affected, both physically and mentally. Conditions such as bunions, plantar fasciitis, and ankle arthritis can make walking, standing, and sleeping difficult. In some cases, foot and ankle surgery may be necessary to alleviate these discomforts and improve one’s quality of life. Many people are hesitant to undergo surgery, but the benefits of having foot and ankle surgery can be substantial.
Let’s discuss these benefits and where you can find the best foot and ankle surgeon in Catonsville.
1. Long-Lasting Pain Relief
The capability of foot and ankle surgery to deliver long-lasting pain relief is one of its most important benefits. Surgery can help you return to your daily routine pain-free rather than constantly struggling with discomfort and limited mobility. To determine whether surgery is the right course of action for you, your orthopedic doctor will thoroughly assess the severity of your problems.
Thinking about the process might be daunting. So it is better to focus on thinking about a positive outcome instead. Getting that foot and ankle surgery may finally help you reclaim your life. That is, by allowing you to enjoy simple pleasures like walking or standing without pain. It can likewise enable you to perform everyday activities, such as:
- Exercising
- Running errands
- Playing with your children or grandchildren
2. Improved Feet Appearance
With foot and ankle surgery, you can experience pain relief and improved appearance. Conditions like bunions and hammertoes can cause your feet to look deformed and unsightly. Don’t worry, as surgical correction can still straighten out your big toe. Foot restoration can leave them looking much more aesthetically pleasing.
Additionally, surgery can remove bony lumps called osteophytes. These structures can cause your big toe joint to become stiff and misshapen. Undergoing the appropriate procedure will allow for increased joint movement and flexibility.
If you are worried about scarring, modern techniques are here to save the day. Your foot can go “under the knife” in a minimally invasive way. Not only can this minimize the formation of scar tissues, but it can also ensure a quicker recovery time. Such an attractive option exists for those seeking to improve the look of their feet.
3. Greater Footwear Selection
Foot or ankle issues may make finding comfortable and appropriate footwear difficult. Some have a deformity or condition that affects the shape or function of their feet. As a result, finding shoes that fit properly can be a challenge.
An injury may have caused damage to the bones or joints in your foot or ankle. But surgery can repair the damage and restore proper function. Moreover, being treated can allow you to wear a wider variety of shoes and enjoy greater comfort.
The primary function of shoes is to shield the feet from harm and various elements. However, the footwear business has grown to be enormous. Currently, it is more driven by fashion and sports. The science of creating the perfect shoe is given little thought.
Shoes may be advertised to help you do the following:
- Play better
- Look better
- Even treat hip and knee osteoarthritis
It’s crucial to be vigilant. There is a lot of improperly fitting footwear out there, and those could hurt your feet.
4. Better Mobility and Improved Function
Movement is essential to our daily lives. The ability to move freely and without pain is something individuals take for granted. From performing basic tasks like standing to engaging in more vigorous activities like sports, mobility is a necessity. So, what happens when our ability to move is compromised? People who suffer from foot and ankle problems know the feeling.
A chronic condition or a recent injury may limit your mobility. Therefore, you’d want to explore all the options to get back on your feet again. Initial treatment is typically non-surgical. It often includes things like:
- Physiotherapy
- Changing how you wear your shoes or insoles (orthotics)
- Taking painkillers
Those treatments may be ineffective because the foot and ankle are complicated body regions. The next recommendation would be surgery for a patient who has tried such remedies.
A reduced range of motion at the ankle and foot joints may warrant prolonged immobilization. In some cases, in a plaster cast or even open reduction with internal fixation (ORIF). Fortunately, surgery can often provide the solution needed to regain greater mobility and improve quality of life. With technological advances and surgical techniques, foot and ankle surgery has become more accessible and effective.
Foot and Ankle Surgery in Catonsville, MD
At Orthopaedic Associates of Central Maryland (OACM), we offer foot and ankle surgery in a top-notch ambulatory center. We also have on-site diagnostic and physical therapy treatments. Everything you require to successfully treat your foot or ankle disease is available from us.
To schedule a consultation with our orthopedic surgeon in Catonsville, MD, you may fill out our online request form or call us today at (410) 644-1880.
