Comprehensive Care for Foot & Ankle Deformities
Injuries and congenital abnormalities can change the shape and function of the ankle or foot, making walking and completing daily activities extremely hard. The Rochester Regional Health Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Program and Pediatric Orthopedics teams work together to diagnose, evaluate, and treat the full range of lower extremity deformities.
What are Foot & Ankle Deformities?
If you or your child are experiencing symptoms or have been diagnosed with a foot or ankle deformity, you?ve come to the right place ? our teams are experts in treating a range of congenital (present from birth) and acquired (due to injury, neurological issues, infections, etc.). These conditions include clubfoot, spinal cord injuries, tendon ruptures and polio.
Common symptoms of a foot or ankle deformity include:
- Pain in the foot
- Trouble wearing shoes
- Problems with balance
- Difficulty walking
- An unusual gait or stride
- Thick, hard skin and pressure sores
- Inflammation of the foot and ankle bones
- Pain
Treatment varies based on the patient?s age and the severity of his or her condition. We often begin with non-surgical approaches, including active monitoring, physical therapy, and special footwear. When surgery is needed, options include:
- Osteotomy ? a small incision is made to remove extra bone or soft tissues or to realign/release bones, soft tissues, tendons or ligaments. The bones are then held in the correct position using metal pins, plates or wires.