Foot Disorders
Treatment of foot deformities includes, in particular, surgical correction of bunions (hallux valgus), stiff big toes (hallux rigidus), painful metatarsal head (metatarsalgia), and hammer toes. We also specialize in this area.
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Phone: 06371 84-2701
Hallux valgus is a deformation of the big toe. As a result of several factors (hereditary predisposition, wrong footwear), there is increasing outward deviation of the big toe and protrusion of the bunion, with formation of bony deposits. The consequence are irritations, swelling, and pain on the ball of the foot. The persistent malposition leads to premature arthrosis in the metatarsophalangeal joint.
Treatment
Depending on the severity of the deformity and the degree of degeneration, and after all non-surgical measures have been exhausted, surgery is done on an individual basis. The surgical procedures used in this context are primarily joint-preserving, foot-narrowing procedures. These procedures – chevron, scarf, Stoffella pin, various osteotomy procedures – result in restoration of the natural form of the foot.
Aftercare
After the operation, the foot can bear weight immediately if a special shoe is worn, which generally needs to be worn for 6 weeks. Regular application of bandages to support the correction, individual measures for reducing the swelling, and intensive physiotherapy as well as exercises done at home have beneficial effects in terms of healing the wound, restoring mobility, and achieving the desired results.
Increasing degeneration of the joint surfaces leads to ever increasing pain in the metatarsophalangeal joint of the big toe. The impaired mobility increasingly impedes heel-to-toe movement when walking. Finally, if the joint cartilage is destroyed, pain may also occur when resting.
Treatment
Depending on the severity, newly formed bone deposits are removed, or even a part of the joint has to be removed while still preserving mobility. Other possibilities include arthrodesis or implantation of an artificial joint.
Aftercare
Provided there is no waiting period for ossification, the foot can bear weight immediately after surgery if a special shoe is worn, which needs to be worn for 4-6 weeks. Regular physiotherapy is beneficial for regaining toe mobility.
Many medical indications with various causes can lead to this foot problem. Most often, there is strain on the metatarsal heads during heel-to-toe movements and while standing; the second and third foot rays are frequently affected.
Treatment
Once all non-surgical measures have been exhausted, surgery is performed. This means that the metatarsal heads are moved and are fixed in the corrected position by means of a special screw. Normally, this screw does not need to be removed.
Aftercare
Post-operatively, the foot can bear weight if a special shoe is worn, which must be worn for 6 weeks. Individual measures to reduce the swelling and intensive physiotherapy as well as exercises done at home have beneficial effects in terms of healing of the wound, restoring mobility, and achieving the overall result of the operation.
Malposition of the big toe, hereditary or acquired muscle imbalances lead to a contracture of the small toes. Increasing pain during walking and formation of corns with pressure pain when wearing footwear are the consequence.
Treatment
Depending on the degree of severity, the joints are mobilized, tendons are repositioned or extended. In the case of severe deformities, it is necessary to remove part of the proximal interphalangeal (middle) joint. Temporary stabilization with a thin wire may then be necessary.
Aftercare
Bis zum Abschluß der Wundheilung kann der Fuß in einem Spezialschuh postoperativ belastet werden. Ein eingebrachter Draht wird nach 14 Tagen entfernt.
