At Progressive Footcare, we specialize in treating certain conditions like bunions, hammertoes, cysts, and neuromas through surgery. We understand the discomfort these conditions can cause, leaving you on the sidelines and unable to enjoy life to its fullest.
Many patients are also concerned about the cosmetic appearance of their feet and whether or not surgery will improve that aesthetic. When performing such operations, we consider this and in most cases can make incisions on the inner side of the foot so as not to leave large, highly visible scars.
We perform these surgeries on an outpatient basis, and many patients can return to some of their normal activities within a few weeks. Because we strive for our operations to be as minimally invasive as possible, 95% of our patients only need over-the-counter pain medicine to manage the pain during recovery.
While recovering, if physical therapy is required it is provided in our office under the supervision of the surgeon. Our surgeon is available 24 hours per day by phone, should you have any emergencies relating to your recent surgery.
As a convenience to our patients, the surgical facility also offers transportation to and from the facility the day of the surgery. This way, you don’t have to worry about driving yourself, which may be difficult or not recommended depending on what kind of surgery you have.
Bunions
Bunions are bony bumps that develop on the outside of the first (big) toe. They are most often caused by pressure causing the big toe to turn inward towards the smaller toes. Over time, deformity in the bone structure develops and leaves the toe permanently angled. This is not only a cosmetic problem for many but a painful one that gets progressively worse and makes it hard to walk and wear shoes. Bunions can happen to anyone but are most frequently seen in women who have worn narrow shoes for many years.
Hammertoes
Hammertoes are another deformity in the toes that develops slowly over time. Pressure placed on the second, third, fourth, and fifth (pinky) toes can cause them to contract uncomfortably. Progressively, the joints in the affected toes become stiff and unable to lay naturally flat, causing pain and sometimes sores. Once the condition has reached this stage, generally the best solution is corrective surgery. Hammertoes are most often caused by shoes that are too tight, but can also be a result of an earlier trauma to the feet or genetically inherited.
Cysts
While most cysts are noncancerous, it is essential to have any new or unusual bumps checked by a doctor. A ganglion cyst is a common kind of cyst that can develop anywhere you have ligaments, including the feet. Ligaments are lined with lubrication called the synovial membrane which allows the ligaments to move freely as needed, but sometimes a fluid-filled sac develops between the ligament and the membrane. Although these types of cysts are typically harmless, they can cause pressure and pain. If a cyst has been resistant to other less invasive measures, sometimes the remaining option is surgery to remove the cyst.
Neuromas
Neuromas are another unfortunately common condition, especially among women. A neuroma, sometimes referred to as a pinched nerve or a nerve tumor, is a benign growth of nerve tissue most frequently found between the third and fourth toes. They lead to a burning, tingling sensation that often leads to numbness in the ball of the foot and toes. Some describe it as the feeling of walking with a rock in their shoe. Although the exact cause is unknown, it is widely believed that biomechanical deformities of the foot such as high arches or flat feet, trauma, improper footwear that squeezes the toes together, or repeated stress on the ball of the foot lead to neuromas. If other treatments have failed, surgery to remove the offending nerve tissue may be the best option.
Broken Bones
We also perform surgery in cases of broken bones in the feet and ankles, as needed. It is crucial if you think you have a broken bone to seek medical attention right away. In some cases, if the break is severe, it may require corrective surgery to reset the bone or insert supportive structures such as pins to ensure proper alignment while it heals.
For more information about foot and ankle surgery or to schedule an appointment for a consultation, please call us today at (212) 244-7670!