When you book an appointment at Ross Hall Hospital, our enquiries team will provide you with a date and time that suits you as well as all the necessary information about what to expect in your initial consultation.
During your first consultation, your consultant will discuss your concerns, what symptoms you're experiencing and assess your medical history to get a clear picture of the situation and determine the appropriate next steps.
Once they are happy that they have a good understanding of your situation, lifestyle, symptoms, possible causes and potential conditions they will conduct a thorough examination of the lower limbs. Things your consultant will look at include:
- Alignment of the foot and ankle
- Foot shape
- Joint motion and strength
Once these initial tests have been completed, they may wish to carry out additional tests or scans to investigate further. Your consultant and the friendly radiography team in the imaging department will always explain the details of the scan or test being conducted for your comfort.
Depending on the scan or test needed, you'll be seen by the relevant specialist from the multidisciplinary team at Ross Hall Hospital. In some cases, it might be possible for you to have the test on the same day as your initial appointment, but usually we would schedule the test for a few days after at a time and day that suits you.
Patients visiting the foot and ankle surgery unit have access to a fully comprehensive facility with cutting-edge equipment. Our integrated approach to all conditions relating to the foot and ankle allow us to consistently provide a fast and accurate diagnosis.
These are standard tests that your foot and ankle surgery specialist may recommend:
- MRI scan - This uses a magnetic field to create a detailed image of your lower leg.
- CT scan - Often referred to as CAT Scans, X-rays are used to produce detailed images of your foot and ankle's internal structures.
- Ultrasound - Uses sound waves to produce internal images.
Your consultant will then arrange a follow-up appointment to go over the results and discuss the best course of treatment. Whether this requires further testing, surgery, physical therapy or referral to another specialist within the hospital, we'll provide clarity and answer any questions you might have.
The foot and ankle surgery team at Ross Hall Hospital is supported by expert physical therapists, surgeons and radiologists who will ensure your time at our hospital is as comfortable as possible by providing a timely diagnosis and comprehensive, bespoke treatment.