When Is Foot or Ankle Surgery the Right Choice for Chronic Pain or Injury? 

Medical providers understand that surgery isn’t always the answer; in fact, we’re overly cautious about it. However, in many cases, minimally invasive surgery on the foot or ankle is the right choice.

The decision to undergo surgery occurs after thorough examinations, diagnostic tests, conservative treatments, and a conversation between you and your provider. At Texas Health Care’s Bone and Joint Clinic, we discuss the best scenario for your long-term health with you, whether that requires surgery or not. 

Our team begins with the mildest treatments. And though our surgical options are often minimally invasive, we always like to think of these procedures as a final resort.

Chronic foot or ankle pain: Is it affecting your life? 

Pain is never easy to live with, and discomfort in your feet and ankles is likely to affect your quality of life. You may have been dealing with this pain for years and find it’s only getting worse. If you've recently been injured or are showing early signs of arthritis, you might be facing intense pain that's hard to manage. 

If your discomfort in either one or both of your feet or ankles is beginning to affect your day-to-day life, it’s time to seek help. 

The best option for your treatment

Every patient is different, so we need to see you, discuss your condition, and possibly run several tests before we can choose a treatment plan that suits your needs. Just know that everyone requires an individualized recovery plan, one that may include several different treatments. 

For example, your foot pain may be related to a current injury that requires rest to heal. If this is the case, your provider will offer you the best methods with which to support your injured foot or ankle. 

A plethora of other treatments also exist, and many of them work together. For example, you could benefit from custom orthotics and weight management to remove excess pressure on your feet. 

When surgery is the right choice 

Sometimes, though, surgery is the best option for foot or ankle pain. Figuring out when this is the case is one of the most individualized jobs we take on as orthopedic providers. We must weigh the risks of surgery against the benefits it could provide and determine whether you’re likely to experience a favorable outcome. 

Essentially, surgery is usually the best choice when three aspects are present: your pain is affecting your day-to-day life; you’re in good enough health to handle the surgery and recovery; and all other treatment avenues have been explored. 

Are you ready for foot or ankle surgery?

This is up to you and your provider. We’re happy to discuss your unique needs and work with you to determine whether surgery is the best choice. Chronic pain can be treated in many ways, but sometimes, surgery is the answer. 

To make an appointment at one of our offices in Southlake, Fort Worth, or Weatherford, Texas, call or visit us online. We look forward to meeting you.