When standing at work, climbing stairs, or wearing everyday shoes becomes painful, it’s reasonable to wonder whether surgery could help. Many foot and ankle problems improve without an operation, but certain conditions require additional treatment.
At Physicians Footcare, our podiatrists help patients throughout South Carolina and Georgia explore their foot and ankle treatment options. Our team includes Dr. Jared Wilkinson, who is board certified by the American Board of Foot and Ankle Surgery in Foot Surgery and Reconstructive Rearfoot/Ankle Surgery.
When Is Foot and Ankle Surgery Recommended?
An operation may be appropriate when persistent pain interferes with daily activities, a structural problem continues to worsen, or an injury needs surgical repair.
Before recommending a procedure, we review your symptoms, medical history, physical examination findings, and imaging when needed. We also consider whether treatments such as custom orthotics, physical therapy, medication, or injections have helped.
Conditions that sometimes require surgical treatment include painful bunions, hammertoes, ankle arthritis, Achilles tendon disorders, posterior tibial tendon problems, and certain cases of Morton’s neuroma or plantar fasciitis. Some foot and ankle fractures may also need prompt surgical evaluation.
What Are the Benefits and Risks of Surgery?
The intended benefit varies with the condition being treated. One operation might correct a painful toe deformity, while another repairs a damaged tendon or improves joint stability.
Although surgery can reduce discomfort and improve movement, results vary. Possible complications include infection, delayed wound healing, nerve irritation, blood clots, or symptoms that persist after recovery. We’ll discuss the risks relevant to your procedure before you make a decision.
Preparing for Surgery and Recovery
Preparation starts with reviewing your medications, medical conditions, and any testing needed before the operation. You’ll also receive instructions about eating, drinking, transportation, and caring for your foot afterward.
Healing can involve swelling, restricted activity, and temporary use of a surgical shoe, boot, splint, or crutches. Your recovery plan will account for everyday responsibilities, including work, driving, and navigating stairs. Follow-up appointments help us monitor healing and determine when activities can safely resume.
Why Choose Physicians Footcare for Foot and Ankle Surgery in South Carolina & Georgia?
Our podiatrists evaluate the underlying condition before discussing which surgical approach, if any, is appropriate. We want patients to understand what an operation could accomplish, what recovery involves, and which limitations deserve consideration.
Dr. Wilkinson brings more than two decades of experience in podiatric medicine and reconstructive foot and ankle surgery. He completed his surgical residency through the Yale New Haven program and has treated conditions ranging from routine foot concerns to complex reconstructive cases.
For selected conditions, our mobile weight-bearing CT imaging can assist with evaluating bone and joint alignment. With offices across South Carolina and Georgia, patients can begin exploring their options at a nearby location.
Frequently Asked Questions
Driving restrictions vary based on the operation, which foot was treated, and whether you can safely control the pedals. You should not drive while taking sedating pain medication or until your surgeon confirms it is safe.
Some procedures allow protected walking relatively soon, while others require a period without putting weight on the affected foot. Your surgeon will explain the restrictions associated with your operation.
Rehabilitation may be recommended to improve strength, flexibility, balance, or walking mechanics. Your surgeon will determine whether physical therapy would benefit your recovery.
Your job duties matter. Someone who works at a desk may return sooner than a person who spends most of the day standing, walking, or lifting. We’ll discuss activity restrictions before your procedure.
Diabetes can increase the risk of complications, particularly when circulation, sensation, or blood sugar control is affected. These factors require careful consideration before surgery and throughout recovery.
Yes. Certain deformities or symptoms can recur, and some patients experience continued discomfort. Long-term results depend on the original condition, surgical technique, individual healing, and other health factors.
Increasing redness, wound drainage, fever, severe calf pain, or worsening swelling should be reported promptly to your surgical team. Sudden chest pain or difficulty breathing requires emergency medical care.
Discuss Your Foot and Ankle Surgery Options
If pain or a structural problem is making everyday activities difficult, our team can help determine whether surgical treatment deserves consideration. Physicians Footcare serves patients throughout South Carolina and Georgia. Call our Augusta, GA, office at 706-724-7000 or Columbia, SC, office at 803-256-6776, or contact us to request an appointment.