Forefoot Fusions
Comments (0) With roughly 52 bones in both of our feet, it’s easy to imagine that each of the joints in our feet must be able to work in a precise, coordinated fashion in order for us to stand and move without problems. This is something that’s easy to take for granted when we’re pain-free. After all, our hands also contain numerous bones and they don’t usually give us trouble, right? Unlike hands, our feet must bear the weight of our entire bodies with each passing step. Consequently, the result of dysfunctional foot joints can become much more devastating. In many such cases, fusing of the joint or joints in question is actually a very feasible solution.
Depending on the case, there are several regions of the foot where podiatric surgeons consider fusion procedures. One area is within the toes. If you try curling them you may notice that each toe has several small joints which allow the curling motion. When one or more of these joints is fused, it converts the toe to a rigid lever and helps eliminate any grinding or other disease process occurring in that toe. Some indications for this may include traumatic arthritis, hammertoes, a cavus or high-arched foot type, and other various deformities.
Another possible fusion may include the area between the ball of the foot and the first (big) toe. These procedures may be done for several reasons including stiffness or arthritis in the area as well as revisions for a previous bunion correction or in response to dysfunction of a tendon. If this is done, the doctor will typically fuse the joint in such a way that its position is optimally placed according to your needs and lifestyle. Your X-rays and foot structure will also be taken into account when the decision is made.
Yet another common fusion site is between the bones of the mid-foot and the long bones of the forefoot. These procedures are similarly done in cases of arthritis, joint mal-alignment, Charcot disease, instability, and in certain bunion cases. Often times, these cases are especially effective in creating stability and providing for a large degree of correction.
With any surgical procedure, there are certain benefits as well as potential risks. The site of fusion as well as the means of fusion (usually screws, wires, or small plates) will vary from individual to individual. Your local Chandler podiatrist can help answer any questions you might have about fusions and whether or not it might be a good option for you. The post-operative regimens also vary; some procedures will allow you to walk
With roughly 52 bones in both of our feet, it’s easy to imagine that each of the joints in our feet must be able to work in a precise, coordinated fashion in order for us to stand and move without problems. This is something that’s easy to take for granted when we’re pain-free. After all, our hands also contain numerous bones and they don’t usually give us trouble, right? Unlike hands, our feet must bear the weight of our entire bodies with each passing step. Consequently, the result of dysfunctional foot joints can become much more devastating. In many such cases, fusing of the joint or joints in question is actually a very feasible solution.
Depending on the case, there are several regions of the foot where podiatric surgeons consider fusion procedures. One area is within the toes. If you try curling them you may notice that each toe has several small joints which allow the curling motion. When one or more of these joints is fused, it converts the toe to a rigid lever and helps eliminate any grinding or other disease process occurring in that toe. Some indications for this may include traumatic arthritis, hammertoes, a cavus or high-arched foot type, and other various deformities.
Another possible fusion may include the area between the ball of the foot and the first (big) toe. These procedures may be done for several reasons including stiffness or arthritis in the area as well as revisions for a previous bunion correction or in response to dysfunction of a tendon. If this is done, the doctor will typically fuse the joint in such a way that its position is optimally placed according to your needs and lifestyle. Your X-rays and foot structure will also be taken into account when the decision is made.
Yet another common fusion site is between the bones of the mid-foot and the long bones of the forefoot. These procedures are similarly done in cases of arthritis, joint mal-alignment, Charcot disease, instability, and in certain bunion cases. Often times, these cases are especially effective in creating stability and providing for a large degree of correction.
With any surgical procedure, there are certain benefits as well as potential risks. The site of fusion as well as the means of fusion (usually screws, wires, or small plates) will vary from individual to individual. Your local Chandler podiatrist can help answer any questions you might have about fusions and whether or not it might be a good option for you. The post-operative regimens also vary; some procedures will allow you to walk
