Introduction
Many foot conditions can be treated at home or in an outpatient setting. Left untreated, however, a small problem can quickly become a much larger issue. Be quick to seek medical attention in Queens for any foot issues you may be experiencing. Read on for more information about untreated foot conditions that may require surgery.
Untreated Foot Conditions That May Require Surgery
Untreated foot conditions that may require surgery include the following:
- Achilles Tendonitis or Tear
- Ankle or foot fractures
- Bone Spurs
- Bunions
- Hammertoes
- Morton’s Neuroma
Achilles Tendonitis or Tear
The Achilles tendon is located at the back of the heel. Tendonitis (inflammation of the tendon) weakens the tendon, making it more prone to a tear. While tendonitis is easily treated at home, in severe or prolonged cases surgery may be needed to alieve pain and help the tendon heal. Surgery is also indicated to repair a torn tendon. Our specialists at Best Foot Doctor NY will explain your options and help you choose what is best for you.
Ankle or Foot Fractures
Depending on the severity of the break, surgery is often required for an ankle or foot fracture. A foot doctor in Queens can determine if your break warrants surgery. Continuing to walk on a broken foot without medical attention can prevent the bones from healing properly and cause ongoing problems.
Excessive Bone Growths
Bunions and bone spurs are excessive growths on the bone.
Bone Spurs
Bone spurs are sharp growths on the joints where two bones meet. They are often treated with over-the-counter (OTC) pain medications, rest, and proper shoes. However, if the pain is not resolved with these remedies, bone spurs can be surgically removed.
Bunions
A bunion is a bony growth on the joint of the big toe. As the bunion grows and worsens it causes the toe to turn inward and often results in pain, swelling, and difficulty walking. Left untreated, a bunion can affect your gait and cause further problems to surrounding tissue, toes, and your entire foot. The treatment for many patients in Queens will be conservative at first (ensure you are wearing proper shoes, ice, and pain medication), but over time a bunion will require bunion surgery to prevent increasing complications.
Hammertoe
A hammertoe can be caused by a bunion. As the bunion causes the first toe to bend inward, the middle joint of the second toe is also forced to bend abnormally. Any toe with an abnormal upward bend in the middle joint is a hammertoe. This deformity can cause pain, calluses, stiffness, and swelling. Surgery is recommended if treatments such as taping your toes and wearing shoes with extra padding or support do not help. Surgery will correct the joint and prevent continued problems.
Morton’s Neuroma
Morton’s neuroma is a nerve condition that typically affects the ball of the foot. You may feel pain, numbness, or false sensations such as that of a pebble or bunched-up sock. Other conditions including hammertoes and bunions can lead to Morton’s neuroma. Custom shoe inserts and pads can help to relieve the pressure on the nerve. If this is not sufficient, your doctor may suggest surgery to remove the nerve or surrounding tissue.
Conclusion
Each of these conditions, if untreated, may eventually require surgery. Don’t hesitate to contact your doctor whenever you experience foot pain. Early intervention can help to prevent the need for surgery. However, even with the best preventative care and treatment, you may be facing surgery. Foot surgery in Queens is readily available. No matter the condition, the experts at Best Foot Doctor NY are here to help.