Foot arthritis can severely affect your quality of life, causing pain, stiffness, and difficulty moving. This condition is often caused by wear and tear on the joints of the foot, leading to inflammation and discomfort. Whether caused by osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or post-traumatic arthritis, the condition can limit movement and cause significant pain.

Mr. Ziad Harb, a renowned orthopaedic consultant, offers advanced treatments for foot arthritis in Surrey, using the latest techniques to reduce pain and restore mobility. In this guide, we’ll explain what foot arthritis is, who can benefit from treatment, the available treatment options, and why Mr. Harb is the best choice for your care in Surrey.

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What is Foot Arthritis?

Foot arthritis refers to inflammation and degeneration of the joints in the foot. It can affect various joints, but the most commonly impacted are those in the big toe, midfoot, and heel. Arthritis in the foot can cause:

• Pain during movement or after periods of activity.
• Stiffness and reduced flexibility.
• Swelling and tenderness around the affected joint.

Common causes of foot arthritis include:

• Osteoarthritis: Age-related wear and tear on the joints.
• Rheumatoid Arthritis: An autoimmune condition that causes inflammation in the joints.
• Post-Traumatic Arthritis: Arthritis that develops after an injury to the foot or ankle.

Treatment is crucial to managing pain, improving function, and preventing further degeneration of the joints.

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Who Can Benefit from Treatment for Foot Arthritis?

Patients experiencing persistent pain, stiffness, or swelling in the foot joints, especially after activity or prolonged standing, may benefit from treatment. Individuals who find it difficult to walk or wear shoes comfortably, or who experience a limited range of motion due to arthritis, should consult a specialist.

Mr. Harb performs a thorough evaluation to determine the best course of treatment, which may include non-surgical options or surgery if conservative methods do not provide sufficient relief.

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Foot Arthritis Treatment in Surrey: The Procedure

Pre-operative Preparation

Before undergoing treatment for foot arthritis, Mr. Harb and his team will assess your condition through a detailed consultation. This may include:

• A review of your medical history and symptoms.
• Imaging tests, such as X-rays or MRIs, to evaluate the extent of the arthritis.
• Pre-surgical tests to ensure you're fit for the procedure.

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The Surgery/Procedure Itself

For more severe cases of foot arthritis that do not respond to conservative treatments, surgery may be necessary. Common surgical procedures for foot arthritis include:

• Arthroscopy: Minimally invasive surgery to remove damaged tissue and reduce inflammation.
• Joint Fusion (Arthrodesis): Fusing the bones in the affected joint to eliminate pain and improve stability.
• Joint Replacement: Replacing a damaged joint with an artificial prosthesis, particularly in the case of the big toe joint (hallux rigidus).

The surgery is performed under local or general anaesthesia, depending on the procedure and your specific case. Mr. Harb uses advanced techniques to ensure the best possible outcome with minimal disruption to surrounding tissues.

Mr. Harb performs foot arthritis surgeries at Nuffield Health Guildford Hospital, a leading facility in Guildford, Surrey, known for its advanced surgical suites and high standards of care. Runnymede Hospital in Ottershaw, Surrey, is also a prominent location for foot arthritis surgeries, offering state-of-the-art facilities for orthopaedic procedures.

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Duration and Post-Op Care

Foot arthritis surgery typically takes 1-2 hours, depending on the complexity of the procedure. After the surgery, you will spend time in recovery, where the medical team will monitor your progress. Most patients stay in the hospital for 1-3 days, depending on the procedure performed.

Immediate post-op care includes:

• Pain management with prescribed medication.
• Mobility assistance, such as walking aids (crutches or a boot).
• Instructions on foot care to ensure optimal healing.

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Recovery and Aftercare

The recovery process varies depending on the type of surgery performed. Most patients can expect the following timeline:

• First Few Days: Rest, pain management, and initial post-operative care.
• First Few Weeks: Gradual mobility improvement with the use of support devices like crutches or a boot.
• 3-6 Months: Full recovery, with the help of physiotherapy to restore strength and flexibility in the foot.

Mr. Harb provides tailored aftercare, including follow-up visits and physiotherapy recommendations to ensure a smooth recovery.

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Risks and Complications

As with any surgery, there are risks involved, although they are rare. Potential complications from foot arthritis surgery include:

• Infection at the surgical site.
• Blood clots.
• Issues with the prosthesis or bone fusion.
• Post-surgical stiffness or joint instability.

Mr. Harb uses the latest surgical techniques to minimize these risks and ensures thorough follow-up care to monitor progress and prevent complications.

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Why Choose Mr. Ziad Harb for Foot Arthritis Treatment in Surrey?

Mr. Ziad Harb is a leading orthopaedic consultant with extensive experience in treating foot arthritis. He is known for his expertise in advanced surgical techniques and his personalised, patient-centred approach to care. Patients benefit from:

• Access to state-of-the-art facilities at Nuffield Health Guildford Hospital and Runnymede Hospital.
• A tailored treatment plan that addresses the specific needs of each patient.
• A compassionate approach to care, ensuring patients feel supported throughout their recovery.

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FAQs

Is foot arthritis surgery painful?
There may be some discomfort during the recovery process, but pain management strategies, including medications and physical therapy, will help manage and reduce pain effectively.

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How long does recovery take?
Recovery time depends on the type of surgery. Most patients begin walking with assistance within a few days, and full recovery typically takes 3-6 months.

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Will I need physiotherapy?
Yes, physiotherapy is essential for restoring strength and flexibility in the foot joint after surgery. Mr. Harb will provide a personalised rehabilitation plan to help you regain full function.

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Can I resume normal activities after surgery?
You will gradually be able to resume activities as your foot heals. Mr. Harb will guide you on when it's safe to return to specific activities, including walking and exercise.

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Contact us today to learn more about how treatment for foot arthritis with Mr. Ziad Harb can help you regain mobility and live pain-free.