Podiatric Surgery involves the investigation and treatment (both surgical and non-surgical) of simple and complex foot and ankle problems. It is carried out by a Consultant Podiatric Surgeon.
Combined, your two feet contain 25% of the entire number of bones in your body. Numerous ligaments, tendons, and joints in and around your feet and ankles ensure excellent mobility and function, and the capacity to support the weight of your body.
Problems can occur as the result of trauma, ‘wear and tear’ degeneration or disease. In particular, sports injuries to the ankle are common, as are foot conditions like bunions and ingrowing toenails.
- Damage to a foot or ankle can have a significant impact on many different aspects of life. For example, it may:
- Prevent you playing your favourite sport
- Cause pain when walking, even short distances
- Keep you awake at night
- Prevent you wearing footwear of our choice
Here at The Cavell Hospital, a Consultant Podiatric Surgeon provides expert assessment and treatment for a range of foot and ankle problems for people aged 18+. They would be delighted to help you too. Why not book your private appointment now?
Conditions seen and treated by a Consultant Podiatric Surgeon at The Cavell Hospital include:
- Forefoot pain
- Sports injuries – these can range from a sprain through to a ligament or tendon tear or even a fracture
- Soft tissue swelling and other painful problems,
- Toe deformity
- Bunion (Hallux Valgus) or Hallux Rigidus (osteoarthritis in the big toe)
- Fluid-filled lump (Ganglion cyst)
- Plantar fasciitis - a very common problem that causes pain in the heel and bottom of the foot
- Osteoarthritis in the foot
- Arthritis in the ankle or foot
- Ankle instability
If you are concerned about any issues in the ankle or foot, or are finding your mobility is limited, it is sensible to seek expert advice.
It is important to know that many foot and ankle problems can be effectively treated and managed without the need for any type of surgery. Your Consultant Podiatric Surgeon will make sure you get the right diagnosis and optimal treatment for your specific condition.
Non-surgical (conservative) treatments include:
- Physiotherapy
- Pain relief medication
- Cortisone injections
- Orthotics (specially fitted insoles)
- Walking aids
If these are not able to help relieve your symptoms as much as required, you may need elective surgery to treat the problem.
There are a range of surgical options for foot problems, including:
- Surgical removal of a bunion (Bunionectomy)
- Debridement, cheilectomy or fusion for big toe arthritis
- Removal of the swollen portion of the nerve for Morton’s Neuroma
- Fusion of a joint to correct deformity in a toe (for Hammer, Claw or Mallet toe)
If surgery is required, your Consultant Podiatric Surgeon will explain more about how it will be done and what results you should expect to see as a result.
From assessment and diagnosis through to treatment and aftercare, every aspect of your care will be discussed with you so that you know what to expect at each stage.
Correct treatment depends on an accurate diagnosis, and this begins with your first consultation.
When you meet with the Consultant Podiatric Surgeon at The Cavell Hospital, they will talk with you about your symptoms. They may ask you questions like:
- What symptoms do you have?
- When did these symptoms first appear?
- Do you have any pain in your foot or ankle? If so, can you describe it?
- Have your symptoms been getting worse over time?
- Have you received any treatment already, such as physiotherapy?
Everybody’s feet tell a story, and a physical examination of your foot will help your Podiatric Surgeon to accurately assess the health, function, strength, and flexibility in different parts of your foot.
They may also examine the rest of your leg, including the knee, thigh, and hip. This helps to determine the muscle tone in your legs, their alignment to one another and your overall posture.
If further tests are needed, such as X-ray, CT, or MRI, these will be arranged for you. Your Consultant Podiatric Surgeon carries a handheld ultrasound scanner, which allows them to investigate certain problems such as neuromas and joint issues during your appointment. This can help avoid delay in obtaining an accurate diagnosis.
Once a diagnosis has been confirmed, your Consultant will discuss suitable treatment options with you and answer any questions or concerns you may have.
Many people who visit our Consultant Podiatric Surgeon live locally, either in Enfield itself or nearby. It is incredibly convenient to have easy, close access to expert help without having to travel to a Central London location such as Harley Street.
Many are referred from their GP, physiotherapist, sports physiotherapist, podiatrist, or private medical insurance provider. Other have been recommended to visit us by a friend or family member and a number self-refer to avoid delay. A medical referral is recommended.
We treat people with private medical insurance and those who choose to self-pay.
When you choose to visit The Cavell Hospital for your private appointment, you will benefit from:
- Fast access to an expert in foot and ankle health – When a foot or ankle problems is causing you pain or limiting your mobility, you won’t want to be waiting for weeks (or even months!) to see somebody for help. We can book a private appointment for you with a highly experienced Consultant Podiatric Surgeon for comprehensive assessment and treatment.
- Flexible appointments – You will be able to book an appointment time that suits your availability. For your convenience, we can also offer remote consultations by telephone or video call if required (and where clinically appropriate).
- Consultant-led, always – You will see the same Consultant Podiatric Surgeon each time you visit, and they will oversee every aspect of your care, from initial appointment through to treatment and post-treatment follow-up. Care is always consultant-led and consultant-directed, ensuring excellent continuity of care.
- Experienced staff – Your Consultant is aided by an experienced team of healthcare professionals including radiologists, physiotherapists, and orthotists. Simple, fast access to this wider team means you will always see the most appropriate person for your needs.
- Tailored treatment – The best results come from bespoke approach to treatment and recovery. Your Consultant will tailor treatment and any rehabilitation programme to your specific needs to ensure you see the best result possible.
- Location – The hospital is located in Beckenham, Kent and is easily accessible by both road and rail. Our car park is free for patients.
If you are concerned about any kind of foot or ankle problem, it is important to know that good help is available; you do not need to remain in pain or discomfort. Effective treatments are available for a wide range of injuries and conditions, both surgical and non-surgical.
Your Consultant will carry out a comprehensive investigation of your problem and then talk you through any treatment options. If surgery is needed, we can arrange that for you without delay.
For peace of mind and known expert care, please contact us to book your private appointment today. We look forward to welcoming you to The Cavell Hospital.
