Foot Surgery
At Boca Podiatry Group, we prefer to treat foot problems non-surgically, however, some issues will not improve and require an operation. If we need to perform such a procedure, Dr. Sommer will explain the process so you will know what to expect.
A local anesthetic may be used for most minor procedures which are done in the office. Other surgeries are performed at the Delray or Boca Out-Patient Surgical Center.
Ingrown Toenail
The surgical removal process of an ingrown toenail requires removing the ingrown portion of the nail and destroying the underneath nail bed. The procedure and recovery is simple and will limit the risks of reoccurring ingrown nails. Dr. Sommer will choose and perform the right procedure for your individual problem.
Arthritis in Big Toe
Arthritis in the big toe joint can cause pain and loss of motion. Walking requires the big toe to bend upwards. Without this movement the big toe joint wears out or may even seize up completely. Dr Sommer can treat this using a variety of surgical techniques. The most severely affected joints often require a replacement artificial joint or fusion (surgical stiffening).
Hammer, Mallet and Claw Toes
Hammer, Mallet and Claw toes are usually caused by tendon or joint imbalance. Hammer toes can be painful and unsightly. Dr Sommer can correct these deformities under a local Anesthetic. Surgery to correct the hammer, mallet or claw toe deformity will usually permanently cure the formation of painful corns on skin overlying these joints.
Plantar Corns
When your corns cannot be resolved with conservative treatment, they may be permanently removed. Often there is an underlying bony abnormality that needs to be addressed. Corns under the foot often result from a prominent metatarsal bone. Dr. Sommer will choose the right operation to elevate the metatarsal so that the corn no longer forms.
Neuromas
If you have an enlarged nerve, usually between the 3rd and 4th toes, caused by nerve irritation and entrapment between bones, surgery may be required. Dr. Sommer routinely removes neuromas under local Anesthetic. Delicate surgical techniques generally result in permanent resolution of this sometimes excruciating condition.
Bone Spurs
Bone spurs are an excessive growth of bone, causing pain or limitation of movement. Spurs can develop at the edges of joints, tendons and ligaments. Dr. Sommer can usually remove your bone spurs using a local Anesthetic.