Do I need foot or ankle surgery? Here’s Q and A with Dr. Andrew Ganshirt
November 20, 2025Categories: Bone and Joint
Overview: Some foot and ankle issues can't be treated without surgery. There are many types of podiatric surgery, ranging in complexity and recovery.
When is surgery necessary?
It may be time for surgery if you have chronic pain or mobility issues due to your feet or ankles and you’ve pursued care with a podiatrist and tried multiple non-surgical approaches without success.
Additionally, surgery may be the best option if you’re experiencing progressive deformities, such as an advanced bunion or hammertoe.
Other reasons for foot or ankle surgery may include post-injury surgery, foot complications from diabetes and issues with nerve pain or arthritis.
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What are the most common types of foot and ankle surgery?
Common foot surgeries include:
- Bunionectomy: removal of bump and realignment of the big toe.
- Flatfoot correction: restoration of the position of the flat foot.
- Hammertoe surgery: repositioning and restoration of deformed toes and may include fusion in the joints.
- Morton’s neuroma surgery: Relief of pressure on inflamed nerve or removal of the impacted nerve.
Common ankle surgeries include:
- Ankle fracture repair: Repair of broken ankle with metal plates and screws to hold the ankle in place.
- Ankle fusion: Elimination of pain from arthritis or instability by joining bones of the ankle.
- Ankle ligament reconstruction: Improvement of ankle stability by tightening loose or torn ligaments.
- Total ankle replacement: Replacement of the ankle joint with an artificial joint.
Will I be able to walk after surgery?
Being able to walk after foot or ankle surgery depends upon the complexity of your procedure. For example, if you had minimally invasive surgery, you'll likely be able to bear weight on your foot quickly.
In some cases, you may begin your recovery on crutches, in a walking boot or with some other non-weight-bearing apparatus.
After an extremely complex surgery, such as a full ankle replacement, it can take up to three months to bear full weight on your ankle, with a full recovery occurring within six to 12 months.
Will I be in a lot of pain post-surgery?
It depends on what type of procedure you have. If you have minor foot or ankle surgery, your initial pain may decrease more quickly than if you have a broken bone repaired.
If you’re prescribed physical therapy, you may notice tenderness after your therapy sessions, and it may be recommended to elevate your leg and use ice for swelling.
Will I need physical therapy during recovery?
Physical therapy after foot and ankle surgery is very common to help with stiffness, range of motion and restored mobility. The timing of physical therapy during your recovery depends upon the complexity of the surgery.
For example, if you have a full ankle replacement, you’ll likely not start physical therapy for two to four weeks, while less complex surgeries may allow you to start therapy sooner. You may also be given exercises to perform at home between appointments.
Are there risks or complications to podiatric surgery?
With any surgery, there are risks for complications. One of the common risks from podiatric surgery is infection. Other risks may include nerve damage, allergic reactions to medication or anesthesia, scarring and unrelieved pain.
As you prepare for surgery, your provider will discuss all the potential risks and plan with you if any issues should occur.
If you’ve exhausted all non-surgical treatment for foot and ankle issues, talk to your podiatrist about your options for surgery. It could be your first step to a more comfortable and active life.
As always, stay connected to your health with MyChart.
Read Kim Hopp's life-changing ankle replacement
