Many patients feel a bit apprehensive about a pending foot surgery. It is quite normal to experience doubts as to whether to go through with any surgery. Not knowing what to expect before, during, and after foot surgery may be as much stress as the foot surgery procedure intends to relieve. Whether the surgery is the first surgery experienced by the patient or the fifth surgery, it is important to understand all aspects of what will occur.

For any surgery, including foot surgery, it is important to always get a second opinion. A second opinion allows the would-be-patient to weigh the benefits and risks of the surgery against possible alternatives.

It is common for doctors to order laboratory tests prior to foot surgery. The laboratory tests can identify potential problems that may complicate the surgery. Some of the tests regularly requested are chest x-ray, urinalysis, sodium, and white blood count.

It is likely to experience some loss of function after foot surgery. Stiffness may be a factor, which may be more limiting than the original problem. Most people are able to resume regular activity after normal recovery from foot surgery.

It is important to note that foot surgery is not advised for active people participating in sports or fitness activities who can still comfortably participate in their career. Sometimes non-surgical treatment such as taking pain relievers, stretching shoes, or wearing pads can alleviate the pain sufficiently. But, if the pain begins to limit the activities, foot surgery would be an option to be considered.

Some heel problems of the foot can result from poor foot development. If a foot is moving incorrectly, the tendons and ligaments can be strained which will cause pain and swelling. Foot surgery can correct the problem in conjunction with corrective footwear.

A somewhat alarming trend showing up in foot surgery statistics is the use of the surgery for cosmetic foot reasons. Women are opting for surgery to improve the appearance of their feet or to accommodate their feet to high fashion shoes. Some of such foot surgeries being performed are shortening of the toes, narrowing of the feet and injecting collagen.

The AOFAS released an official statement warning consumers who choose to have this type of foot surgery that the risk far outweighs any benefits contrived from the surgery.