Did you know that up to 87% of people suffer from foot or ankle pain at some point in their lives? This statistic highlights the importance of addressing foot health, especially when pain persists or worsens.
At Lake Erie Podiatry, Dr. Michael Ruiz, DPM, is a trusted expert in podiatric care with over 20 years of experience. Located in Erie, PA, we provide comprehensive treatment for a wide variety of foot and ankle issues, ensuring our patients receive the best care possible. If you're experiencing discomfort or uncertainty about your foot health, schedule an appointment with us today.
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Understanding the signs that you may need ankle surgery is vital for your overall well-being and mobility. Let’s look at the key indicators that suggest it might be time to consider surgical intervention.
1. Conservative Treatments Are Not Working
When foot or ankle pain arises, most people try at-home remedies or over-the-counter treatments first. However, if these methods have not provided relief after a reasonable amount of time, it may be an indication that surgery is necessary.
At Lake Erie Podiatry, we prioritize conservative treatment options such as physical therapy and custom orthotics whenever possible. Foot and ankle surgery is always a last resort when all other methods have been exhausted.
2. Chronic Pain That Affects Daily Activities
Foot or ankle pain that persists for over six months and interferes with daily activities should not be ignored. This type of chronic pain can greatly impact your quality of life and may indicate a more significant issue that requires surgical intervention.
Ignoring chronic pain can lead to further complications, so it's essential to consult with a podiatrist like Dr. Michael Ruiz to determine the best treatment plan for your specific condition.
3. Difficulty Walking or Standing
If you are experiencing difficulty walking or standing due to ankle pain, this could be a sign of a more severe underlying issue. Surgery might be necessary to alleviate the pain and improve mobility.
It's crucial not to ignore these symptoms as they can worsen over time and cause further damage if left untreated.
4. Visible Deformities or Irregularities
Visible deformities or irregularities in the ankle can be a clear indication that surgical intervention may be needed. Conditions such as ankle misalignment, severe swelling, or protruding bones should be taken seriously, as they may point to underlying issues like arthritis or trauma-related damage.
Ankle deformities that go untreated can lead to worsening pain and further complications over time. Consulting with an experienced podiatrist, such as Dr. Michael Ruiz at Lake Erie Podiatry, can help you understand the nature of the deformity and explore potential treatment options, including surgery if necessary.
5. Chronic Ankle Sprains
Repeated ankle sprains can lead to chronic instability and pain, often requiring surgical intervention for proper healing. If you've experienced multiple ankle sprains without proper healing, it's essential to consult with a podiatrist who specializes in ankle surgery.
Dr. Ruiz has helped many patients recover from chronic sprained ankles through surgical procedures that address the underlying issues causing instability.
6. Arthritis in the Ankle
Arthritis is a degenerative condition that can affect any joint in the body, including those in the ankle. If conservative treatments do not provide relief for arthritis pain, surgery may be necessary to improve mobility and alleviate discomfort.
Dr. Michael Ruiz is experienced in treating arthritis of the ankle through various surgical techniques tailored to each patient's specific needs.
7. Fractures or Severe Injuries
Fractures or severe injuries to the ankle may require surgical intervention for proper healing and function. Complex fractures, tendon ruptures, and ligament tears are examples of injuries that may require surgery.
If you've sustained foot and ankle injuries, it's essential to seek medical attention from a podiatric specialist like Dr. Michael Ruiz for a personalized treatment plan.
Get the Help You Need with Dr. Ruiz
Persistent foot or ankle pain may indicate a need for surgical intervention, and prompt action can significantly improve your quality of life. At Lake Erie Podiatry, we are equipped to provide the comprehensive care you need to regain comfort and mobility.
Don’t let discomfort persist any longer; schedule an appointment with Dr. Ruiz to explore our comprehensive foot and ankle surgical services.
