Items filtered by date: January 2025

Gout is a painful condition that can lead to severe joint damage over time. When conservative treatments such as medication and lifestyle changes fail to manage symptoms, surgery may become necessary. One option is to remove tophi, deposits of uric acid crystals that form under the skin often around joints. Tophi removal can relieve pain and prevent further joint damage. In cases where the joint is severely damaged, joint fusion may be recommended. This procedure involves fusing the bones of the affected joint to eliminate pain and improve stability. Another surgical option is joint replacement, which involves removing and replacing the damaged joint with a prosthetic. This is usually reserved for severe cases where joint function is significantly impaired. Gout surgery is typically considered when the condition causes chronic pain, deformity, or loss of function that nonsurgical methods cannot address. If you have painful gout episodes, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can discuss treatment options with you.

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact one of our podiatrists of Montgomery Foot Care Specialists. our doctors will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

When Is Surgery Necessary?

Foot and ankle surgery is generally reserved for cases in which less invasive, conservative procedures have failed to alleviate the problem. Some of the cases in which surgery may be necessary include:

• Removing foot deformities like bunions and bone spurs
• Severe arthritis that has caused bone issues
• Cosmetic reconstruction

What Types of Surgery Are There?

The type of surgery you receive will depend on the nature of the problem you have. Some of the possible surgeries include:

• Bunionectomy for painful bunions
• Surgical fusion for realignment of bones
• Neuropathy decompression surgery to treat nerve damage

Benefits of Surgery

Although surgery is usually a last resort, it can provide more complete pain relief compared to non-surgical methods and may allow you to finally resume full activity.

Surgical techniques have also become increasingly sophisticated. Techniques like endoscopic surgery allow for smaller incisions and faster recovery times.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Montgomery, AL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

First walking shoes are an important milestone in a baby's development, offering both support and comfort as they take their first steps. There are several types of first walking shoes designed to meet the needs of growing feet. Soft-soled shoes are ideal for early walkers as they provide flexibility while offering protection against rough surfaces. These shoes allow babies to feel the ground, which helps with balance and coordination. Hard-soled shoes are better suited for toddlers who are more confident walkers, offering stability and durability for outdoor adventures. Another option is sandals with secure straps, which provide breathability and comfort during warmer months. It is essential to choose shoes that fit properly and have enough room for the toes to move freely. If your child has trouble walking or has foot pain, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist who can monitor your baby’s foot health, and guide you on helpful tips for choosing the right shoes.    

The health of a child’s feet is vital to their overall well-being. If you have any questions regarding foot health, contact one of our podiatrists of Montgomery Foot Care Specialists. our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Tips for Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

• Make sure their shoes fit properly
• Look for any signs of in-toeing or out-toeing
• Check to see if they have Clubfoot (condition that affects your child’s foot and ankle, twisting the heel and toes inward) which is one of the most common nonmajor birth defects.
• Lightly cover your baby’s feet (Tight covers may keep your baby from moving their feet freely, and could prevent normal development)
• Allow your toddler to go shoeless (Shoes can be restricting for a young child’s foot)
• Cut toenails straight across to avoid ingrown toenails
• Keep your child’s foot clean and dry
• Cover cuts and scrapes. Wash any scratches with soap and water and cover them with a bandage until they’ve healed.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Montgomery, AL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.