Dr. Stuart Honick - Podiatric Medicine and Surgery

If conservative management of your foot problems has not helped then surgical intervention may be necessary. Often when pain or deformity persists, surgery may be appropriate to alleviate discomfort or to restore the function of your foot.

A common deformity of the foot. A bunion is an enlargement of the bone and tissue around the big toe joint. There is a strong hereditary influence with the occurrence of bunions. Bunions may become red, swollen, and inflamed making it difficult to wear shoegear and walking uncomfortable. If conservative care fails to alleviate your symptoms surgery may be indicated. There are many bunion procedures. Dr. Honick will determine the type of the surgical procedure best suited for your deformity based on many factors which could include x-ray, gait examination, and physical findings.

A hammertoe is a contracture of the toe joint caused by imbalance of the tendon or joints in the toes. Hammertoes may become painful due to footwear irritation and pressure. Corns and calluses may be formed as the hammertoe becomes more rigid over time, making it difficult to wear shoes. Dr. Honick may suggest correction of this deformity through a surgical procedure to realign the toes.

An irritation of the outer covering of the nerve may produce a neuroma which is a benign enlargement of the nerve segment, most commonly found between the third and fourth toes. There are many factors which may contribute to the formation of a neuroma. Abnormal bone structure, trauma, arthritis, or excessive use of high-heeled shoes may contribute to neuroma formation. The most common clinical findings are burning or tingling in the ball of the foot and even numbness may be seen.

Those people suffering from neuromas often find relief by taking their shoe off and rubbing the affected area. The patients may describe pain similar to having a stone in the shoe and also may describe it as if a sock was rolled or bunched up under the toes.

Dr. Honick will x-ray the affected area to rule out any bony abnormality. He may recommend MRI to determine the size and severity of the neuroma and suggest a treatment plan. If conservative treatment fails to relieve symptoms then Dr. Honick will decide on the basis of your symptoms whether a surgical treatment is appropriate.

A bone spur is excessive growth of bone as a result of pressure, trauma, or stress of a ligament or tendon. This excessive growth can cause pain and restrict motion of the joint. Spurs may also form under toenails causing a nail deformity with associated pain. Dr. Honick will determine which surgical method is best suited for your particular condition.

The patient undergoing foot surgery requires specific tests and examination before surgery to improve a successful surgical outcome. Prior to surgery Dr. Honick will review your medical history and medical conditions. Specific diseases, illnesses, allergies, and current medications need to be evaluated. Other tests that help to evaluate your health status may be ordered such as blood studies, urinalysis, EKG, x-rays, arterial Dopplers; to evaluate your circulatory status and a biomechanical examination. A consultation with a medical specialist may be advised depending on your test results or specific medical condition.

The type of foot surgery performed dictates the length and kind of postoperative care required to ensure successful recovery. The basics of all postoperative care involve: Rest, ice, compression, and elevation. Bandages, splints, surgical shoes, cast, crutches, or canes may be necessary to ensure a safe recovery after foot surgery. Often times, physical therapy is utilized to augment the healing process.

This website is maintained to facilitate access to information about foot health and to provide information about footcare products. The content of this website, such as text, graphics, images and other material, are for informational purposes only and are not intended to replace the services of a trained health care professional or to be a substitute for medical advice provided by a qualified physician or other appropriate health care professional. You should consult your own physician or other appropriate health care provider on specific medical questions, including matters requiring diagnosis, treatment or medical assistance.