Foot pain has a way of creeping into every part of your life. It can limit how long you’re able to stand at work, whether you can exercise, and even how many errands you can run.
While many foot conditions can be managed with conservative treatments, there are times when surgery becomes the best option. But how do you know when it’s time to consider surgery? You don’t have to decide on your own.
Our team at Manhattan Podiatry Associates in Midtown and Downtown Manhattan, New York City, can help you determine whether surgery is right for you. We specialize in minimally invasive surgery so you can get back on your feet even faster.
Read on to learn about minimally invasive foot surgery and the six signs you shouldn’t ignore.
Minimally invasive foot surgery uses specialized instruments and small incisions to correct structural foot problems. Compared to traditional open surgery, this approach often results in:
Not every condition qualifies, but many common foot problems can now be treated using these advanced techniques.
It may be time to consider foot surgery if:
If your foot pain has lasted for weeks or months despite rest, supportive footwear, orthotics, or physical therapy, it may signal an underlying structural issue. Chronic pain isn’t something you should push through, especially if it interferes with your daily life.
When foot pain forces you to cut back on work, exercise, or social activities, it’s a sign your condition may be progressing. Minimally invasive surgery can often address the root cause before the problem worsens.
Bunions, hammertoes, and other toe deformities often progress if they’re not treated. Severe bunions, for example, can lead to further joint misalignment, which can also increase your risk of developing osteoarthritis in your big toe joint.
If you notice increasing misalignment, redness, or trouble fitting into your shoes, talk to us.
Is your ankle always swollen? Does your big toe flare up? Frequent swelling, stiffness, or flare-ups, especially around your joints, can point to abnormal foot mechanics or joint damage.
When these symptoms recur, surgery may target the underlying cause of chronic swelling. In other words, surgery can provide longer-lasting relief than over-the-counter remedies like anti-inflammatory medications or ice packs.
Burning sensations, tingling, or numbness in your foot or toes may indicate nerve compression. For example, conditions like neuromas can sometimes be treated by removing the irritated nerve using minimally invasive techniques.
Surgery is rarely the first step. However, if shoe changes, injections, medications, or custom orthotics no longer provide relief, it may be time to explore minimally invasive surgical options.
Minimally invasive foot surgery may be used to treat:
Your podiatrist at Manhattan Podiatry Associates specializes in minimally invasive surgical techniques and can determine whether this approach is appropriate based on your diagnosis, symptoms, and overall foot health.
Taking action sooner rather than later can help you return to comfortable movement and everyday activities with less pain.
To learn more about the benefits of minimally invasive foot surgery and if it’s right for you, call our location closest to you. Or book an appointment online today.
