Foot & Ankle Surgery in Pembroke Pines & Plantation
Most foot and ankle problems can be treated without surgery. When pain and loss of function continue despite conservative care, surgery can correct the underlying problem and help you return to an active life. At Daniel Bell, DPM - Foot & Ankle Institute, Daniel Bell, DPM performs foot and ankle surgery for deformities, tendon injuries, arthritis, and trauma, always beginning with a thorough evaluation and a clear discussion of your options.
When Is Foot or Ankle Surgery Recommended?
The need for surgery depends on the severity of your condition, the amount of pain you are experiencing, and how you have responded to previous treatments. Surgery is considered only after other methods have been unsuccessful, such as medication, exercise, physical therapy, modified shoes, and custom orthotics, or non-invasive therapies like shockwave therapy and RPW therapy.
Conditions That May Require Surgery
- Hammertoes: Deformity of the smaller toes caused by tendon or joint imbalance.
- Bunions: Hallux valgus, an enlargement and misalignment of the joint at the base of the big toe that becomes inflamed and painful. Advanced correction is available through Lapiplasty.
- Posterior tibial tendon dysfunction: The posterior tibial tendon helps support the arch. When it is damaged and the arch collapses, causing adult-acquired flat foot, surgical reconstruction may be needed.
- Achilles tendon injuries: Ruptures or chronic damage may require repair or lengthening depending on severity.
- Ankle arthritis: Joint damage can cause bone spurs (osteophytes) around the joint that lead to pain and inflammation.
- Ankle replacement: Reconstructive surgery that replaces the ankle joint after severe injury or advanced arthritis.
- Chronic ankle instability: Ligament repair or reconstruction to restore stability.
- Fractures: Displaced or complex fractures that need realignment and fixation.
For procedures focused specifically on correcting structural deformities, see our surgical corrections of foot disorders page.
What to Expect
Your journey begins with a comprehensive exam and imaging to confirm the diagnosis. Dr. Bell will explain the recommended procedure, its benefits and risks, and what recovery will look like. Many foot procedures are performed on an outpatient basis. After surgery, you may wear a surgical shoe, boot, or cast and follow a gradual plan to return to walking and normal activity.
Recovery and Long-Term Results
Recovery time varies by procedure, from a few weeks for minor toe surgery to several months for reconstruction or joint replacement. Follow-up visits ensure proper healing, and custom orthotics may be recommended afterward to protect your results. Patients with diabetes receive close monitoring through our diabetic foot care and wound care services. Explore all of our podiatry services.
Foot & Ankle Surgery FAQs
How do I know if I need foot or ankle surgery?
Surgery may be recommended when pain or loss of function continues after conservative treatments like orthotics, medication, and therapy have failed.
What conditions can foot and ankle surgery treat?
Surgery can treat bunions, hammertoes, flat feet, Achilles tendon injuries, ankle arthritis, chronic instability, and complex fractures.
Is foot surgery done on an outpatient basis?
Many foot and ankle procedures are outpatient, allowing you to go home the same day. Your plan depends on the procedure.
How long is recovery after foot surgery?
Recovery ranges from a few weeks for minor procedures to several months for reconstruction or joint replacement.
What is ankle replacement surgery?
Ankle replacement removes a damaged ankle joint and replaces it with an artificial joint to relieve pain and preserve motion.
Will I need physical therapy after surgery?
Many patients benefit from physical therapy to restore strength, flexibility, and normal walking after foot or ankle surgery.
Do you try non-surgical treatment first?
Yes. Surgery is only considered after conservative treatments have been tried and have not provided enough relief.
Talk to Dr. Bell About Your Surgical Options
If pain continues despite treatment, a consultation can help you understand your next steps. Call (954) 942-5005 - Pembroke Pines Office or (954) 942-5005 - Plantation Office or request an appointment online.