What is Foot & Ankle Deformity Correction?
Foot and ankle deformity is the structural abnormality caused by misalignment of the bones of the foot and ankle.
The deformity can be:
- Congenital (inherited and present from birth)
- Acquired (due to injuries, neuro issues, muscular imbalances, infections, etc.)
Foot and Ankle deformity correction is the repair of the abnormality by restoring the normal alignment of the bones in the foot & ankle, surgically or non-surgically.
Indications for Foot & Ankle Deformity Correction
Notable indications for foot and ankle deformity correction can be:
- Difficulty walking due to an unusual gait
- Problems with balance or signs of disability
- Pain in the foot or trouble wearing shoes
- Thick, hard skin (callous) and pressure sores
- Inflammation of the foot and ankle bones
- Pain in the knees, hips, back and head
Preparing for the Procedure
To prepare you for the surgery, your surgeon is likely to:
- Check your general health and review your medical conditions through specific tests.
- Ask you to stop taking any medications or make changes to the dosage or timings.
- Tell you to have a dental check-up and get any problems dealt with to avoid infection.
- Advise you to arrange for safe transport home after the surgery.
- Recommend that you not eat or drink for a few hours before the operation.
Treatment Procedure for Foot & Ankle Deformity Correction in Fort Worth & Weatherford, TX
Mild deformities can be corrected with non-surgical treatments, including physical therapy, orthoses (splints or braces or other artificial external devices), special footwear, and medications.
If the deformity is severe, surgery is recommended. The procedure, known as an osteotomy, is performed under general or regional (affecting only the leg or foot) anesthesia.
During the procedure:
- A small incision is made at the site, and the affected part is accessed.
- Extra or unwanted bone wedges and soft tissues are cut and removed.
- Bones are realigned, soft tissues are released, and tendons or ligaments are adjusted.
- The bones are held in the correct position and stabilized with tiny wires, pins, or plates.
- The incision is closed with small stitches, and a dressing or bandage is applied.
Postoperative Care
As you recover from the procedure, you will need to follow post-op instructions:
- Carefully follow the postoperative instructions
- Provide adequate rest to your foot and ankle
- Ensure minimal weight bearing during the initial days
- Check your progress with your surgeon on a regular basis
Additionally, you may be told to use a splint, cast, or brace along with special shoes for a specific period to ensure a safe recovery and prevent the deformity from returning.
Benefits of Foot & Ankle Deformity Correction
Benefits of deformity correction include:
- Minimally invasive procedure
- Near normal, painless, and stable foot and ankle
- Improved mobility or function of the foot and ankle
- Allows normal shoe wear and ensures better gait
- Cosmetically improved appearance of the foot and ankle
Risks Associated with the Procedure
As with any surgery, deformity correction comes with risks, such as:
- Infection, swelling,g or stiffness
- Wound hematoma (bleeding)
- Problems of healing
- Blood clots in the leg
- Nerve injury with numbness
- Restriction of joint movement
- Shortened foot
- Development of arthritis later in life
Why Choose Dr. Gary Driver for the Correction of Foot and Ankle Deformities in Fort Worth and Weatherford, TX?
Dr. Gary Driver has been correcting foot and ankle deformities for years. Here is what makes his practice a great choice:
Advanced Treatment Techniques
Dr. Gary Driver uses the latest medical technologies and minimally invasive techniques to make precise diagnoses and provide effective treatment. Through his advanced treatment approach, he aims to speed up recovery and minimize discomfort.
Patient-Centered Care
At Dr. Gary Driver’s clinics, each patient receives tailored treatment based on their specific condition. Dr. Gary Driver ensures his patients feel heard and supported throughout the treatment process.
Convenient Locations
With conveniently located clinics in Fort Worth and Weatherford, patients in the DFW area can easily access expert care without having to travel long distances.
Award-Winning Service
Dr. Gary Driver is a dedicated foot and ankle surgeon who has gained recognition from his peers, who have nominated him as one of the Top Docs in Fort Worth multiple times since he opened his practice. He has years of experience treating complex foot and ankle conditions with a variety of surgical and non-surgical methods.
Fellowship-Trained Foot and Ankle Surgeon
As a fellowship-trained ankle surgeon, Dr. Gary Driver has extensive knowledge and experience in correcting foot deformities. He is an active member of the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons and takes pride in providing comprehensive, personalized treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the non-surgical treatment options for foot and ankle deformities?
Non-surgical treatment options for foot and ankle deformities include:
- Physical therapy
- Pain medication
- Orthotic inserts
- Lifestyle modifications
- Casts and splints
How long does it take to recover from corrective surgery for foot and ankle deformities?
The recovery time will depend on the severity of the deformity. During your initial consultation, Dr. Gary Driver can provide you with a specific estimate of the recovery time for foot deformity correction in Fort Worth, TX. He can also provide you with a recovery plan to ensure a smooth healing journey.
Is physical therapy required after corrective surgery for foot and ankle deformities?
Physical therapy will likely be necessary to restore mobility, prevent stiffness, improve flexibility, and strengthen the muscles supporting your foot and ankle.
Does insurance cover corrective surgery for foot and ankle deformities?
Some insurance providers cover medically necessary surgeries for foot and ankle deformities. However, pre-authorization will likely be required, and cosmetic surgeries are usually excluded. Consider consulting your insurance provider for precise details about insurance coverage.
Is corrective surgery for foot and ankle deformities painful?
No, you will be given local or general anesthesia prior to the procedure so that you do not experience any pain while it is happening. However, some pain and discomfort is to be expected post-surgery. Dr. Gary Driver will do everything he can to minimize your discomfort following the procedure.