What People Might Ask When Selecting a Foot and Ankle Surgeon

A foot and ankle surgeon is a medical specialist focused on the diagnosis, care, and surgical treatment of disorders affecting the structures of the lower leg. These surgeons manage a wide range of conditions, from common foot problems and sports injuries to complex deformities and arthritis. Their expertise includes performing procedures to alleviate pain, restore function, and improve alignment and stability. Here are some questions to ask your potential surgeon:

What Are My Options?

When consulting with a foot and ankle surgeon, a key first step is to understand the full spectrum of available treatments. A thorough evaluation will determine the most appropriate course of action for your specific condition, which may or may not involve surgery. When you are referred to a surgeon, discuss what treatments may benefit your condition long term. 

Non-surgical Treatments

For many foot and ankle conditions, conservative, non-surgical approaches are the first line of treatment. These methods are designed to reduce symptoms and improve function without invasive procedures. A surgeon can help you evaluate options like:

• Rest and Activity Modification: Limiting or changing activities that worsen your symptoms.
• Bracing, Splinting, or Orthotics: Using supportive devices to stabilize the foot or ankle, correct alignment, or offload pressure from injured areas.
• Physical Therapy: Performing specific exercises to improve strength, flexibility, balance, and range of motion.
• Footwear Changes: Selecting appropriate shoes that provide adequate support and accommodate your foot structure.
• Medications or Injections: Utilizing anti-inflammatory medications or targeted injections to manage pain and swelling.

Surgical Treatments

If non-surgical treatments do not provide sufficient relief or if your condition is severe, a surgeon may discuss surgical options. The suitability of any procedure depends on a comprehensive evaluation of your condition. For surgical repair or reconstruction of the outside ligaments of the ankle, you may need a lateral ankle stabilization procedure. This procedure is often performed for individuals with recurrent ankle sprains or a persistent feeling of instability.

An ankle arthrocopy is a minimally invasive procedure where a small camera is inserted into the ankle joint, allowing the surgeon to view and treat issues like cartilage damage or remove loose bone fragments. Some ankle surgeries are for extensive damage. An ankle replacement surgery replaces the damaged surfaces of the ankle joint with prosthetic components. This is an option for addressing advanced arthritis to reduce pain and restore joint motion.

When Is Surgery Necessary?

The decision to proceed with surgery is made carefully between you and your surgeon. Surgery is typically recommended when symptoms persist despite comprehensive non-surgical care. Factors like structural problems identified on imaging studies or frequent episodes of joint instability also inform this decision. When there is a significant impact on your ability to perform daily activities, surgery may become necessary.

During your surgical consultation, explain your symptoms and how they impact you. Some symptoms that may need surgical interventions include:

• Persistent Pain
• Chronic Swelling
• Stiff Joints
• Reduced Range of Motion
• Locking, Catching, Tingling, or Grinding Sensations

How Are Your Care Plans Comprehensive?

A comprehensive care plan extends beyond the surgical procedure itself. It involves detailed planning before, during, and after surgery to support a smooth recovery. Discuss the risks and benefits of recommended procedures with your potential surgeon. Ask about your treatment plan and what you can expect at different stages.

Effective care often involves coordination between the foot and ankle surgeon, a podiatrist, physical therapists, and your primary care physician to align all aspects of your diagnosis, treatment, and recovery. Quality surgeons will provide clear guidance and inform you about returning to work and other daily activities. They will discuss pain management approaches, rehabilitation stages, and what your follow-up check-ins will be like.

Contact a Foot and Ankle Surgeon

When preparing to meet with a foot and ankle surgeon, it can be helpful to organize your thoughts and medical materials. Try preparing a list of questions about your condition and treatment options. If you have them, bring any prior medical records, imaging reports, and a list of current medications. Be ready to discuss your personal goals, lifestyle, and activity demands to help the surgeon understand what a successful outcome looks like for you. Schedule a consultation today to learn about your options.

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