Foot and ankle surgery : Specialists

What is foot and ankle surgery?

This is a type of surgery which treats problems with the foot and/or ankle. This includes fractures, tendon damage, bunions, ankle instability and arthritis.

The foot itself is a complex piece of machinery which contains 28 bones in total. This means that it is prone to a wide range of disorders –from sprains and strains to compound fractures. The ankle is a delicate structure which is comprised of three separate joints and four bones. These along with ligaments enable the ankle to perform a wide range of movements. They also provide shock absorption and stability as well.

What is a foot and ankle surgeon?

This is an orthopaedic surgeon who specialises in disorders in the lower part of the body, i.e. the foot and ankle.

What does a foot and ankle surgeon do?

They treat a range of conditions which include:

• Hallux valgus (bunions)
• Hallux rigidus (stiff big toe)
• Toe deformities
• Tendonitis
• Footballer’s ankle
• Ankle arthritis
• Morton’s neuroma (tissue swellings between the toes)
• Factures – foot and ankle
• Plantar fasciitis
• Flat feet and other structural problems

A foot and ankle surgeon can treat everyday problems such as bunions through to sports injuries and long term structural problems.