GIPPSLAND ORTHOPAEDICS
FOOT & ANKLE
Ankle arthroscopy
Arthroscopy is a keyhole surgery that allows the inside of the joint to be visualised and injuries treated. Ankle arthroscopy can be used for diagnosis and treatment of synovitis (inflammation of the joint lining), osteoarthritis, fracture, chondral defects and ligament reconstruction.
Bunions
Small bunions can be treated with footwear modification and padding. Large bunions that are painful can be removed surgically.
Hallux Valgus
Hallux valgus is malalignment of the bones of the big toe. It can be treated by footwear modification in its early stages. Pain and significant deformity are best treated surgically.
Hallux Rigidus
Hallux rigidis is another name for arthritis of the joint at the base of the big toe. It can be treated with a rigid orthotic to reduce movement and stop pain. Surgery involves fusion of this joint to eliminate pain.
Midfoot and hindfoot arthritis
Midfoot, hindfoot and ankle arthritis which is painful is best treated with fusion. This gives a predictably good outcome with little functional loss. The goal of fusion of a joint is to completely stop movement thereby eliminating pain.
Flat foot
Flat foot is caused by a number of different problems in children and adults. The cause and the severity of flat foot are considered when treating it. Treatment ranges from the use of orthotics to surgery involving transfer of tendons and fusion of joints of the foot.