Private Orthopaedic Surgery Options for Canadians
Foot and Ankle Surgery
Foot and ankle problems can have a major impact on day-to-day life. Pain, stiffness, deformity, instability, or difficulty walking can affect work, exercise, recreation, and overall quality of life.
At Ortho South, we help patients understand their foot and ankle condition, review both surgical and non-surgical treatment options, and determine whether surgery is the right choice based on their symptoms, goals, and lifestyle. Not every foot or ankle problem requires an operation, and many conditions can be managed successfully with a thoughtful, individualized non-surgical treatment plan.
Treatment options may include activity modification, physiotherapy, medications, injections, orthotics, shoe modifications, walking boots, ankle braces, or other supportive devices. When these measures are not enough, surgery may be considered.
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Common Foot and Ankle Procedures
The exact procedure recommended depends on the diagnosis, the severity of the problem, the patient’s goals, and whether there are other associated conditions. Foot and ankle surgery is often highly individualized. Procedures may include:
- Total ankle replacement
- Ankle fusion
- Bunion correction
- Forefoot reconstruction
- Lateral ankle ligament reconstruction or stabilization
- Midfoot fusion or reconstruction
- Hindfoot fusion or reconstruction
- Correction of painful deformity
- Surgery for arthritis, instability, or post-traumatic problems
Total Ankle Replacement
Total ankle replacement may be an option for selected patients with advanced ankle arthritis. The goal is to reduce pain while preserving some ankle motion.
Not every patient with ankle arthritis is a candidate for ankle replacement. Factors such as deformity, bone quality, activity level, previous injury, medical conditions, and the condition of nearby joints all play a role in deciding whether ankle replacement or fusion is the better option.
Bunions and Forefoot Reconstruction
Bunions and other forefoot deformities can cause pain, difficulty with footwear, pressure areas, and changes in walking mechanics. Surgery may be considered when symptoms remain significant despite shoe modifications, orthotics, padding, or other non-operative treatments.
The type of surgery depends on the deformity and may involve realigning bones, correcting soft tissue imbalance, or addressing arthritis in nearby joints.
Ankle Instability and Ligament Surgery
Some patients develop ongoing ankle instability after repeated sprains or ligament injuries. This can lead to recurrent giving way, pain, swelling, and difficulty returning to sport or activity.
Initial treatment often includes physiotherapy, bracing, strengthening, and balance training. If instability persists, lateral ankle ligament reconstruction or stabilization may be considered.
Fusions and Reconstruction
Fusion surgery may be recommended for painful arthritis, deformity, instability, or post-traumatic problems in the ankle, midfoot, or hindfoot. The goal is to reduce pain by eliminating motion at a damaged joint.
Although fusion reduces motion in the affected joint, it can significantly improve pain and function when the joint is severely damaged. Reconstruction may also involve correcting alignment, stabilizing joints, or improving the position of the foot for walking and footwear.
Is Surgery Right for You?
Foot and ankle conditions can be complex, and the best treatment is not always obvious from an X-ray or MRI alone. A consultation helps determine whether symptoms are coming from the area seen on imaging, whether non-operative options have been fully explored, and whether surgery is likely to provide meaningful benefit.
If surgery is recommended, the procedure, recovery timeline, risks, expected outcome, and alternatives will be reviewed in detail.
Book a Consultation
If foot or ankle pain is limiting your mobility, activity, or quality of life, you can book a consultation to review your diagnosis and discuss treatment options. A referral is not required.
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Questions About Our Services?
Contact our team to learn more about consultations, surgical procedures, locations, pricing, or appointment availability.