How Surgery Corrects Foot Deformities

As we at PodiatryCare, PC, and the Heel Pain Center know, dealing with a foot deformity can be a constant battle against pain, limited mobility, and the struggle to find comfortable shoes. And, while conservative treatments like custom orthotics and supportive footwear can work wonders, sometimes the structural problem is so severe that surgery becomes the most effective path toward relief. Let’s talk about these surgeries in more detail.

What is a Foot Deformity?

A foot deformity is essentially a change in the shape or alignment of your foot. It could be a bony bump at the base of your big toe, a toe that's bent in an odd way, or an arch that has collapsed.

And while these issues look bad, the real problem is the chronic pain, painful pressure points, and difficulty moving they cause.

How Surgery Works to Correct Deformities

Think of a podiatric surgeon as an architect who is rebuilding the foundation of your foot; they can perform various procedures to correct a deformity.

For example, a surgeon can cut and realign bones in a procedure called an osteotomy to straighten a bunion or reshape a crooked toe. They can also release or tighten tendons and ligaments to restore balance and alignment.

In some cases, to create long-term stability, a surgeon may fuse a joint. The entire goal is to correct the structure of your foot so that it can function properly again.

Common Deformities Surgery Can Fix

  • Bunions: For bunions that are painful and don't respond to conservative care, we can perform a bunionectomy to realign the big toe joint and remove the bony bump.

  • Hammertoes: If your hammertoe has become rigid and causes painful corns or calluses, surgery can be a great option. A surgeon can straighten the toe by adjusting the joint or tendons and allow your toe to lie flat again.

  • Flat Feet: For a severely collapsed arch that causes pain and limits mobility, flatfoot reconstruction surgery can rebuild the arch using bone procedures and tendon transfers.

  • Other Deformities: Surgery can also address other deformities, like a rigid high arch or toe malalignment that may be affecting your gait.

When to Consider Surgery

Surgery is typically the right choice for you when your foot pain is constant, you can't find comfortable shoes, or the deformity is impacting your daily life, and you've already tried non-surgical options like orthotics or physical therapy without success.

While recovery isn’t a quick fix, it's about taking the next step towards a pain-free and more active life.

At PodiatryCare, PC, and the Heel Pain Center, we treat a wide variety of foot and ankle ailments. Dr. Matthew Tschudy, Dr. Rebecca Wiesner, Dr. Kristen Winters, Dr. Laura Vander Poel, and the rest of our team are ready to serve our Hartford County patients. To schedule an appointment at our Enfield location, call (860) 741-3041; for an appointment at our South Windsor location, call (860) 644-6525.

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