Several factors can cause foot pain. Our feet are incredibly complex, and changes to our foot structure can cause problems as we age. Our metatarsals tend to take on the brunt of these changes, resulting in deformations or inflammation. If you’ve been experiencing intense pain in the ball of your foot, you may need metatarsal surgery to get you back on your feet again.
Metatarsal Surgery
Your feet have five long bones, also known as the metatarsal bones. The end of these bones makes up the ball of your foot. Since these bones are crucial to foot movement, any deformations or injuries can result in pain and discomfort. If this is the case, surgery may be the option to return regular foot function to the patient.
If there is abnormal pressure on a metatarsal due to deformity, this surgery aims to restore the natural pressure points on the ball of your foot. Your doctor may choose to raise the dropped metatarsal or shorten an overly long metatarsal to make it even with the shorter surrounding metatarsals.
When is Metatarsal Surgery Necessary?
Metatarsal surgery may be necessary if you’re suffering from the following ailments:
- Bunions
- Painful calluses
- Metatarsalgia
- Dropped metatarsals
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Diabetic ulcerations
- Metatarsal fractures
- Deformed bones
What Happens During Metatarsal Surgery?
During metatarsal surgery, a metatarsal bone is cut behind the toe, properly positioned, and fixed in place with a metal screw or pin. After a few weeks, your doctor will remove the pin.
This surgery usually is performed on an outpatient basis. Patients are instructed to keep their weight off the foot for about four to six weeks to allow the bone to heal correctly. You’ll be fitted with a cast and given crutches to use when walking.
You must avoid walking on your foot during the recovery period. If the foot bears weight too soon, the bone could shift and heal in the wrong position, resulting in calluses or bunions.
What Can I Do To Treat Metatarsal Pain?
Before undergoing metatarsal surgery, patients can implement the following to help with the pain:
- Wear proper shoes. Avoid wearing high-heeled shoes, and choose footwear with ample cushioning in the ball of your foot.
- Use insoles. Cushioned insoles can help take off the pressure from your metatarsals while you walk.
- Modify activities. Avoid activities that keep you on your feet for long periods. Opt for non-impact exercises such as swimming or cycling.
Contact Canyon Oaks for Metatarsal Surgery
If you’ve been experiencing unrelenting pain in your metatarsal bones, perhaps metatarsal surgery is the answer. Here at Canyon Oaks, we understand that any surgery is cause for concern. Our experienced team of doctors and staff are on hand to answer questions you may have.
To find out more about the metatarsal surgery procedure, feel free to contact us. You can do so by giving us a call or by filling out our online contact form. A member of our team will be in touch within one business day.
We look forward to helping you get back on your feet as soon as possible.