Foot and ankle surgery
Painful foot and ankle conditions
Foot and ankle surgery Hervey Bay
Welcome to our Foot and Ankle Conditions Guide, a valuable source of information on common orthopaedic issues impacting the health of your feet and ankles. Our dedicated orthopaedic team is committed to providing effective solutions for conditions like Plantar Fasciitis, Achilles Tendonitis, Bunions, Morton's Neuroma, Ankle Sprains, Osteoarthritis of the foot and ankle, Heel Spurs and Hammertoes.
Plantar Fascitis
Plantar Fasciitis is a common foot condition marked by inflammation of the plantar fascia, a ligament connecting the heel bone to the toes. This inflammation leads to stabbing pain, particularly during the first steps in the morning. Contributing factors include high-impact activities, improper footwear and tight calf muscles. Treatment involves rest, stretching exercises, orthotics and sometimes anti-inflammatory medications. Surgery is sometimes indicated if other treatments have failed.
Achilles Tendonitis
Achilles Tendonitis is the inflammation of the Achilles tendon, the fibrous band connecting the calf muscles to the heel bone. Overuse, sudden increases in activity, or improper footwear can strain the tendon, causing pain, swelling and stiffness. Treatment includes rest, ice, stretching exercises and in severe cases, physical therapy or surgery.
Bunions / Hallux Valgus
Bunions are bony protrusions that form at the joint of the big toe, often due to genetic factors, tight shoes, or arthritis. This deformity causes the big toe to angle towards the second toe, resulting in pain, swelling and difficulty in finding properly fitting shoes. Non-surgical interventions include wearing wider shoes, using orthotics and managing symptoms with pain relievers. Surgical options are considered when conservative measures fail.
Morton's Neuroma
Morton's Neuroma is a painful condition involving the thickening of tissue around the nerves leading to the toes. Typically occurring between the third and fourth toes, it causes sharp, burning pain and the sensation of standing on a pebble.
Contributing factors include tight shoes, high heels, or foot deformities. Treatment involves wearing proper footwear, orthotics and sometimes corticosteroid injections. In severe cases, surgery may be considered.
Ankle sprain / ATFL sprain
Ankle Sprains result from the stretching or tearing of ligaments (typically ATFL and CFL) that support the ankle joint. Commonly occurring during sports or uneven surfaces, symptoms include pain, swelling and instability. Treatment involves the R.I.C.E. method (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation), along with physical therapy for strengthening and stabilizing the ankle. Severe cases may require immobilisation through bracing or casting and chronic instability may require stabilisation surgery.
Osteoarthritis of the foot and ankle
Osteoarthritis in the foot and ankle is a degenerative joint condition characterized by the breakdown of cartilage. It leads to pain, stiffness and reduced mobility. Risk factors include age, genetics and previous joint injuries. Management involves pain relief, exercise, weight management, Injections and in advanced cases, surgical interventions like joint fusion.
Heel Spurs
Heel Spurs are abnormal bony outgrowths on the underside of the heel bone, often associated with plantar fasciitis. While many individuals with heel spurs experience no pain, some may feel intense heel pain. Treatment includes addressing the underlying cause, such as plantar fasciitis, along with supportive measures like orthotics, stretching exercises and in rare cases, surgical removal.
Hammertoes
Hammertoes result from an imbalance in toe muscles, causing abnormal bending of the toe joints. This deformity, often exacerbated by tight shoes or genetics, can lead to pain, corns and calluses. Non-surgical interventions include wearing properly fitting shoes, toe exercises and orthotic devices. In severe cases, surgical correction may be necessary to straighten the toe joints.
Orthopaedic Surgeon Hervey Bay
If you are struggling with a painful foot or ankle condition (including arthritis/osteoarthritis), please do not hesitate to contact us. Dr Aidan Cleary is an experienced orthopaedic surgeon providing surgery options and treatments for lower limb issues.
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Fraser Coast Orthopaedics accepts referrals from all regions including Hervey Bay, Maryborough, Gin Gin, Monto, Mount Perry, Mundubbera, Gayndah, Tiaro, Gympie, Rainbow Beach, Tin Can Bay, Cooloola Cove and Bundaberg.