Are you struggling with severe midfoot pain or instability? At Ankle & Foot Specialists North Texas, we specialize in midfoot fusion surgery to help you regain stability and alleviate pain. Here’s a detailed guide to understanding this procedure, its benefits, and what you can expect from the procedure.
What is Midfoot Fusion?
Midfoot fusion is a surgical procedure designed to treat severe arthritis, deformities, or instability in the midfoot. The surgery involves fusing the bones in the midfoot together to eliminate movement in the affected joints, thereby reducing pain and improving foot stability. This procedure is often considered when conservative treatments such as medication, orthotics, and physical therapy have failed to provide relief.
Causes
Midfoot fusion is typically recommended for conditions that cause significant pain and instability in the midfoot, including:
- Severe Arthritis: Osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis causing joint damage.
- Traumatic Injuries: Fractures or dislocations that have healed improperly.
- Deformities: Conditions like flatfoot or cavus foot that lead to midfoot problems.
- Charcot Foot: A complication of diabetes that leads to joint and bone deformities.
Symptoms Indicating the Need for Fusion
Common symptoms that might indicate the need for midfoot fusion include:
- Persistent pain in the midfoot that worsens with activity
- Swelling and tenderness in the midfoot area
- Difficulty walking or bearing weight on the foot
- Visible deformity or instability in the midfoot
The Midfoot Fusion Procedure
The midfoot fusion surgery involves several steps to ensure the best outcome:
- Anesthesia: The procedure is typically performed under general anesthesia.
- Incision: An incision is made over the midfoot to access the affected joints.
- Bone Preparation: The damaged cartilage is removed, and the bones are prepared for fusion.
- Fixation: The bones are positioned correctly and held together with screws, plates, or rods to promote fusion.
- Closure: The incision is closed with sutures, and a bandage is applied.
Recovery
Recovery from midfoot fusion surgery requires time and adherence to postoperative instructions. Key aspects of recovery include:
- Immobilization: Using a cast or boot to protect the foot and allow the bones to fuse properly.
- Non-Weight Bearing: Avoiding weight-bearing activities for several weeks, using crutches or a wheelchair.
- Physical Therapy: Engaging in physical therapy to restore strength and mobility to the foot.
- Gradual Return to Activity: Slowly increasing activity levels as the foot heals, following your surgeon’s guidance.
Benefits of Fusion
Midfoot fusion offers several significant benefits, including:
- Long-term pain relief
- Improved foot stability and function
- Enhanced ability to perform daily activities
- Prevention of further joint damage
Schedule Your Consultation Today
Don’t let midfoot pain disrupt your life. If you’re experiencing symptoms that may require midfoot fusion, contact Ankle & Foot Specialists North Texas today. Our expert team is dedicated to providing personalized care and effective surgical solutions to help you step confidently again.
Call us at (903) 484-3668 or book your appointment now!
