Unrelenting Foot Pain
The occasional ache or pain can often be attributed to a specific event or situation. For example, a person opting for a long-distance hike might temporarily experience sore feet. However, in some cases, discomfort doesn’t go away or worsens. While at-home treatment can help with many foot conditions, in some scenarios, a trip to the doctor may be warranted to discuss surgical options. Understanding when to see an expert for foot pain can be the difference between finding relief or suffering needlessly from discomfort.
A surgical solution
Arthroscopic surgery is a general type of diagnostic and reparative procedure used to manage joint problems. The minimally invasive process involves inserting narrow tubes into the affected area with a fiber optic camera attached to determine the source of the injury. In some cases, if the extent of the damage is easily identified, surgeons can use miniature surgical instruments to correct the issue. Arthroscopy is used to treat loose bone fragments, torn cartilage, inflamed joint linings, torn ligaments, and scarring inside the joints.
RICE or surgery?
Not every ache and pain in the foot needs to be managed with surgery. In many cases, rest, ice, compression, and elevation, also known as the RICE method, is more than sufficient. For more severe cases, surgical interventions are necessary. In particular, more serious fractures in the ankle, severely torn tendons or ligaments, and even sprains may require surgery for proper correction.
When to see a doctor
Discomfort or pain can be a subjective metric, and what 1 person finds unbearable may not feel like much to another individual. However, in some scenarios, getting a medical review and opinion is recommended. For example, a fracture in the ankle that’s diagnosed as unstable means relying on a splint or cast may not be enough to ensure the bones will heal properly. Likewise, a severe sprain could mean a person has ruptured or completely torn the ligament, requiring surgery for repair.
When arthritis is the culprit
Another common reason for joint pain is arthritis. Most people assume that the condition only impacts the fingers, hands, wrists, and knees. The reality is that any joint can be at risk of experiencing arthritis, including the ankles. Although not every person with arthritis is a good candidate for arthroscopy, some may find that undergoing a distraction arthroplasty where the ankle joint is stretched is an appropriate choice. The process is intended to heal tissue damage directly related to ankle arthritis along with physical therapy (PT) aimed at range of motion (ROM) progression.
Don’t settle for a life of pain
Not every foot problem can be solved with surgery, even when the procedure is minimally invasive, like arthroscopy. However, hobbling around day after day instead of seeking help is equally unproductive. Although most foot ailments can be solved with rest, hot and cold therapy, and over-the-counter (OTC) pain medications, the same can’t be said for more severe breaks, fractures, tears, and ruptures. Seeking medical assistance and determining the best course of action ensures a person can return to normal quickly and have a better quality of life.
