Minimally invasive foot and ankle surgery uses small incisions and instruments to treat certain conditions while limiting disruption to nearby tissues. Depending on the procedure, this type of surgery may be considered for bunions, hammertoes, and other problems that do not improve with conservative care. Symptoms leading to surgery can include pain, swelling, or difficulty walking. The goal is to correct the problem while helping the foot or ankle heal.

There are several potential benefits to minimally invasive surgery. Smaller incisions may create smaller, more pleasing scars than traditional surgical approaches. Less disruption to surrounding tissue may support a faster recovery for some patients. Patients may also experience reduced post-operative pain and decreased post-operative joint stiffness. However, results vary based on the condition, procedure, and individual health. Not every foot or ankle problem can be treated with a minimally invasive approach.

Risk factors for complications include diabetes, smoking, and medical conditions that affect healing. A podiatrist will review your health history and examine the affected area before recommending surgery. Imaging tests may be used to understand bone alignment or joint changes. If surgery is appropriate, the podiatrist explains the procedure, expected recovery, and aftercare. Treatment may also include protective footwear, wound care, and follow-up visits.

After surgery, following your podiatrist's instructions is an important part of recovery. The foot may need protection while tissues heal, and activity may need to increase gradually. Follow-up appointments allow the podiatrist to check the incision, swelling, and progress. Keeping the surgical area clean and reporting unusual drainage, increasing redness, or worsening pain can help address concerns. If you have a foot or ankle condition that could benefit from minimally invasive surgery, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can determine if this type of foot surgery is right for you.

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact Brian Doerr, DPM of Florida. Our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

When Is Surgery Necessary?

Foot and ankle surgery is generally reserved for cases in which less invasive, conservative procedures have failed to alleviate the problem. Some of the cases in which surgery may be necessary include:

• Removing foot deformities like bunions and bone spurs
• Severe arthritis that has caused bone issues
• Cosmetic reconstruction

What Types of Surgery Are There?

The type of surgery you receive will depend on the nature of the problem you have. Some of the possible surgeries include:

• Bunionectomy for painful bunions
• Surgical fusion for realignment of bones
• Neuropathy decompression surgery to treat nerve damage

Benefits of Surgery

Although surgery is usually a last resort, it can provide more complete pain relief compared to non-surgical methods and may allow you to finally resume full activity.

Surgical techniques have also become increasingly sophisticated. Techniques like endoscopic surgery allow for smaller incisions and faster recovery times.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Fort Meyers, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

An ingrown toenail occurs when the edge or corner of a toenail grows into the surrounding skin. The big toe is affected most often. This problem can cause tenderness, redness, and pain along the nail edge. Some people notice drainage or increased warmth when the area becomes infected. Ingrown toenails can make walking and wearing shoes uncomfortable. Getting care early may help prevent the problem from becoming more serious.

Several factors can contribute to an ingrown toenail. Cutting nails too short or rounding the corners can encourage the nail to grow into the skin. Wearing tight shoes can also place pressure on the nail. Structural conditions may increase the risk when the toe is curved, or the nail is unusually thick. Additionally, biomechanical problems can also change how pressure moves across the foot while walking. Repeated pressure from sports or activities may make symptoms worse.

Prevention starts with simple foot care. Trim toenails straight across and avoid cutting deeply into the corners. Choose shoes with enough room for your toes to move comfortably. Keep the feet clean and dry, especially after exercise. Check your toes regularly for redness, swelling, or tenderness. If an ingrown toenail keeps returning, a podiatrist can look for structural or biomechanical causes. Treatment may include gently lifting the nail, removing the affected nail edge, or using medication when infection is present.

A podiatrist will examine the nail and surrounding skin before recommending treatment. If infection or significant inflammation is present, appropriate care may be provided to control it. For recurring problems, the podiatrist may remove part of the nail and address the portion that repeatedly grows into the skin. Proper wound care and follow-up supports healing. If you have an ingrown toenail, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for effective relief tips, which may include minor surgery. 

Ingrown toenails may initially present themselves as a minor discomfort, but they may progress into an infection in the skin without proper treatment. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact Brian Doerr, DPM of Florida. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails are caused when the corner or side of a toenail grows into the soft flesh surrounding it. They often result in redness, swelling, pain, and in some cases, infection. This condition typically affects the big toe and may recur if it is not treated properly.

Causes

• Improper toenail trimming
• Genetics
• Improper shoe fitting
• Injury from pedicures or nail picking
• Abnormal gait
• Poor hygiene

You are more likely to develop an ingrown toenail if you are obese, have diabetes, arthritis, or have any fungal infection in your nails. Additionally, people who have foot or toe deformities are at a higher risk of developing an ingrown toenail.

Symptoms

Some symptoms of ingrown toenails are redness, swelling, and pain. In rare cases, there may be a yellowish drainage coming from the nail.

Treatment

Ignoring an ingrown toenail can have serious complications. Infections of the nail border can progress to a deeper soft-tissue infection, which can then turn into a bone infection. You should always speak with your podiatrist if you suspect you have an ingrown toenail, especially if you have diabetes or poor circulation.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Fort Meyers, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Foot pain from wearing sandals is common when footwear does not provide enough support for the arch or heel. Flat sandals can allow the foot to roll inward while walking. Thin soles may also increase pressure on the bottom of the foot. Symptoms can include aching or tenderness after walking. Risk factors include prolonged walking, existing foot problems, and suddenly switching from supportive shoes to sandals. People with poor arch support needs may notice discomfort quickly.

Wearing unsupportive sandals also can aggravate certain conditions. Plantar fasciitis is irritation involving the thick band of tissue along the bottom of the foot. It often causes heel pain after rest. Bunions are structural changes that cause the big toe to move toward the other toes. They may cause swelling and pressure near the big toe joint. Morton’s neuroma involves irritation around a nerve between the toes. It can cause burning pain beneath the forefoot. Seeing a podiatrist can help deal with any of these conditions.

A podiatrist begins by reviewing your symptoms, footwear habits and medical history. The foot is examined for tenderness, swelling, and pressure areas. Imaging may be recommended when structural problems need evaluation. Treatment depends on the diagnosis and may include wearing supportive footwear, custom orthotics, or medication, if appropriate. A podiatrist may also recommend stretching exercises, if suitable. Persistent bunions or nerve pain may require additional treatment if conservative care does not provide relief.

Choosing sandals with arch support, cushioning, and a secure fit can help reduce strain during walking and daily activities. Avoid unsupportive sandals for long periods of time when your feet already hurt. Gradually increase walking time and pay attention to changes in pain. Persistent symptoms should not be ignored because early care may prevent worsening. If foot pain caused by wearing sandals continues, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for effective relief tips, and guidance on choosing more appropriate shoes.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Brian Doerr, DPM from Florida. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Bunions
• Hammertoes
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Bone Spurs
• Corns
• Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
• Ingrown Toenails
• Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
• Flat Feet
• Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
• And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Fort Meyers, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Tarsal tunnel syndrome develops when the tibial nerve becomes compressed near the inside of the ankle. This nerve travels through a narrow space called the tarsal tunnel before continuing into the foot. Pressure in this area can cause pain, burning, or tingling along the sole of the foot. Some patients also experience numbness. Symptoms can become more noticeable with standing or activity. An ankle injury, a cyst, or changes in foot structure can increase pressure around the nerve. Identifying where symptoms occur can help determine whether nerve compression is involved.

A podiatrist can evaluate tarsal tunnel syndrome by examining the foot and ankle and asking about the pattern of symptoms. One examination method involves gently tapping over the tibial nerve near the inner ankle. Tingling or an electric sensation that travels into the foot can suggest irritation of the nerve. The podiatrist can assess ankle movement, foot structure, and the way a patient walks. This evaluation is important because other problems can also cause pain or numbness in the foot. Understanding the source of the symptoms helps guide an appropriate treatment plan.

Podiatric care can focus on mechanical factors that place added stress around the ankle and foot. A podiatrist can address restricted joint movement and evaluate how the lower leg affects foot mechanics. Treatment can include gentle joint mobilization, guided stretching, and strengthening exercises based on examination findings. A podiatrist can also assess movement patterns that could increase pressure around the tarsal tunnel. Persistent numbness or worsening weakness deserves careful evaluation because ongoing nerve compression can affect foot function. If you have symptoms of tarsal tunnel syndrome, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Tarsal tunnel syndrome can be very uncomfortable to live with. If you are experiencing tarsal tunnel syndrome, contact Brian Doerr, DPM of Florida. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

Tarsal tunnel syndrome, which can also be called tibial nerve dysfunction, is an uncommon condition of misfiring peripheral nerves in the foot. The tibial nerve is the peripheral nerve in the leg responsible for sensation and movement of the foot and calf muscles. In tarsal tunnel syndrome, the tibial nerve is damaged, causing problems with movement and feeling in the foot of the affected leg.

Common Cause of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

• Involves pressure or an injury, direct pressure on the tibial nerve for an extended period of time, sometimes caused by other body structures close by or near the knee.
• Diseases that damage nerves, including diabetes, may cause tarsal tunnel syndrome.
• At times, tarsal tunnel syndrome can appear without an obvious cause in some cases.

The Effects of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

• Different sensations, an afflicted person may experience pain, tingling, burning or other unusual sensations in the foot of the affected leg.
• The foot muscles, toes and ankle become weaker, and curling your toes or flexing your foot can become difficult.
• If condition worsens, infections and ulcers may develop on the foot that is experiencing the syndrome.

A physical exam of the leg can help identify the presence of tarsal tunnel syndrome. Medical tests, such as a nerve biopsy, are also used to diagnose the condition. Patients may receive physical therapy and prescriptive medication. In extreme cases, some may require surgery.

If you have any questions please contact our office located in Fort Meyers, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.