Foot and ankle surgery involves several procedures performed on the feet, ankles, and lower legs. Many conditions can affect the foot and ankle, such as fractures, sprains, deformities, diseases, and infections. While not everyone with foot or ankle problems needs foot & ankle surgery Mill Creek, WA, it is crucial to understand this type of treatment in order to decide if it is right for you.
Here is what you should expect during foot and ankle surgery
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Why is foot and ankle surgery performed?
A foot and ankle surgery can be performed to address complications that arise due to various medical conditions. Some of these conditions include
Charcot joint-This is the most common medical condition that leads to foot and ankle surgery. It is a condition that results in severe damage to the bones of the foot.
Peripheral neuropathy: This is characterized by weakness in the muscles that control movement and feeling in the feet.
Cosmetic purposes:Foot and ankle surgery can also be used for cosmetic purposes. For instance, plastic surgery on the foot and ankle can improve the appearance of the foot or ankle and correct minor deformities.
What to expect from foot and ankle surgeries
Foot and ankle surgeries are done under general anesthesia or local anesthesia with sedation. General anesthesia puts you into a deep sleep while local anesthesia numbs only a small area of skin around the surgical site. The type of anesthesia used depends on the type of procedure being performed and your doctor’s preference.
After your surgery, you will be taken to a recovery room where an experienced nurse will look after you until you have fully recovered from the effects of anesthesia. You can expect to feel pain and discomfort for several days after your surgery, but this should lessen over time with medication.
What are the benefits of foot and ankle surgery?
Foot and ankle surgery is done to correct foot and ankle deformities. The surgery is usually performed by a foot and ankle surgeon. There are numerous benefits linked to foot and ankle surgery. These include;
Increased mobility
Foot and ankle surgery may provide individuals with increased mobility around the joints. This is beneficial for those who have experienced problems with the connection between the leg and foot due to osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis. These conditions can lead to pain and a limited range of motion.
Relieving pain
The key benefit of foot and ankle surgery is that it can help provide relief from pain. This can be due to an injury or pain that has persisted for a long time. When surgery is done on the joints in your feet, you will no longer have pain from those joints, which in turn will allow you to walk more comfortably. Foot and ankle problems are very common and impact many people’s lives.
Improved health
Foot and ankle surgery can help improve health in several ways by correcting problems that are causing pain, discomfort, reduced mobility, or other adverse effects. For a person who is not living an active lifestyle due to foot pain, it can be difficult to get the exercise needed to remain healthy.
This can lead to weight gain and an increased risk of other health concerns like heart disease and diabetes. By reducing pain and improving mobility and balance, foot surgery can allow someone to resume normal activity and stave off the health risks of a sedentary lifestyle.
Foot and ankle surgery can significantly improve a person’s quality of life and ability to engage in daily activities. This is especially true for people with conditions affecting the feet’ bones, joints, or soft tissues. If you have problems with your joints, reach out to Hansen Foot & Ankle experts today.
