Finding the Right Foot & Ankle Orthopedic Surgeon Near Me: Achilles Sprains, Arthritis, and Modern Orthopedic Surgery Explained

Foot and ankle pain is one of the most common reasons adults visit orthopedic clinics. Whether it’s a painful sprain that never healed properly, chronic heel pain that worsens every morning, or stiffness in the ankle that makes everyday walking difficult, these issues can severely limit mobility and quality of life.

For many people, the first instinct is to rest, ice, stretch, or change shoes. But when symptoms persist, a common search soon follows: “foot and ankle orthopedic surgeon near me.”

This search reflects a growing awareness that foot and ankle problems require expertise - not just general orthopedic care, but specialists trained in the complex biomechanics of the lower limb, modern surgical methods, and advanced treatment techniques.

In this in-depth guide, you’ll learn everything you need to know about foot and ankle orthopedic surgery, the latest approaches in Achilles tendon sprain treatment, how to manage arthritis in feet and ankles, and most importantly, how to choose the right surgeon for your care.

Why Foot & Ankle Issues Require Specialized Care

The foot and ankle form a highly complex system of 26 bones, over 30 joints, and dozens of tendons, ligaments, and soft-tissue structures. Together, they provide stability, absorb shock, and support the entire body’s weight during movement.

Because the foot and ankle work as a single kinetic chain, even a small injury, like a tendon sprain -can impact alignment, balance, and movement patterns. Over time, untreated or improperly treated issues can lead to:

• Chronic pain

• Reduced mobility

• Arthritis and joint degeneration

• Recurrent sprains

• Deformities

• Tendon weakness or tearing

A foot and ankle orthopedic surgeon has advanced training dedicated to diagnosing and treating these conditions. They understand biomechanics, perform minimally invasive and open surgical procedures, and offer comprehensive treatment plans tailored to each patient’s needs.

What “Orthopedic Surgery Foot and Ankle” Really Means

Foot & ankle orthopedic surgery is a subspecialty within orthopedic medicine that focuses exclusively on conditions below the knee. These specialists treat:

• Tendon injuries (Achilles sprains, tears, tendinopathy)

• Arthritis in feet and ankles

• Ankle fractures and foot fractures

• Ligament tears and instability

• Flatfoot, cavus foot, and other deformities

• Bunions, hammertoes, and forefoot abnormalities

• Sports-related injuries

• Chronic pain conditions

They provide both non-surgical and surgical care. Not every condition requires surgery - far from it. In fact, the best orthopedic surgeons prioritize conservative approaches first. But when surgery is the best pathway to restore function, you want someone trained in advanced techniques, including:

• Arthroscopy

• Tendon repair and reconstruction

• Joint preservation procedures

• Joint fusion (arthrodesis)

• Total ankle replacement

• Corrective alignment procedures

• Minimally invasive and percutaneous surgeries

This specialized skill set ensures patients receive accurate diagnoses and customized solutions.

Achilles Tendon Sprain Treatment: What Patients Need to Know

The Achilles tendon is the strongest tendon in the human body, but it’s also one of the most frequently injured. Achilles tendon injuries range from mild sprains to complete ruptures.

What Causes an Achilles Tendon Sprain?

Some of the most common causes include:

• Sudden increase in physical activity

• Poor footwear

• Tight calf muscles

• Overuse

• Jumping or sprinting motions

• Missteps or falls

• Age-related tendon degeneration

People often describe a sharp pain in the back of the ankle, swelling, difficulty walking, or weakness during push-off.

How Achilles Injuries Are Diagnosed

A foot and ankle orthopedic surgeon performs:

• A physical exam

• Strength testing

• Palpation of the tendon

• A Thompson test to check for tears

• Ultrasound or MRI if deeper imaging is needed

This ensures the injury is classified accurately, which is essential for choosing the right treatment.

Non-Surgical Achilles Tendon Sprain Treatment

Milder sprains and partial tears often respond well to non-operative treatment. This may include:

• Rest and activity modification

• Immobilization with a boot or brace

• Ice and elevation

• Anti-inflammatory medication

• Calf stretching and strengthening

• Physical therapy focused on eccentric loading

• Orthotics to support alignment

Conservative treatments can be very effective if started early.

When Surgery Is Needed for Achilles Injuries

Surgery may be recommended for:

• Large partial tears

• Full ruptures

• Injuries that do not improve with conservative treatment

• Athletes or highly active individuals

• Tendons that have degenerated over time

Modern surgical options include:

• Open repair for larger tears

• Minimally invasive or percutaneous repair, which reduces scarring and speeds recovery

• Tendon augmentation (using grafts or biological materials)

• Calcific deposits removal, if present

• Debridement and repair in chronic tendinopathy cases

These techniques help restore tendon strength, alignment, and function.

Recovery After Achilles Tendon Surgery

Recovery varies depending on injury severity and surgical method. Typical milestones include:

• 2–4 weeks: Protected weightbearing

• 4–6 weeks: Gradual partial weightbearing

• 6–12 weeks: Walking in supportive shoes

• 3–6 months: Strength recovery and improved mobility

• 6–12 months: Return to full athletic activity

Rehabilitation is a critical part of the healing process and significantly affects long-term outcomes.

Arthritis in Feet and Ankles: Causes, Symptoms & Modern Treatments

Arthritis is one of the most common reasons people seek a foot and ankle orthopedic surgeon near me, especially as they age. Arthritis can affect any of the many joints in the foot or ankle and often leads to debilitating pain.

Types of Arthritis in the Feet and Ankles

• Osteoarthritis – wear-and-tear degeneration

• Rheumatoid arthritis – inflammatory autoimmune condition

• Post-traumatic arthritis – develops after injuries like fractures or severe sprains

• Gout-related arthritis – caused by uric acid crystal buildup

Because the foot bears body weight, even mild arthritis can feel severe.

Common Symptoms of Foot & Ankle Arthritis

• Pain during movement

• Swelling

• Morning stiffness

• Reduced joint flexibility

• Pain that worsens with activity

• Difficulty walking or standing

• Joint deformity

Patients often report that the pain affects work, exercise, and daily activities.

How Foot & Ankle Arthritis Is Diagnosed

Diagnosis usually involves:

• Physical examination

• Gait and mobility assessment

• X-rays to identify joint degeneration

• CT or MRI for complex cases

• Discussion of symptoms and lifestyle needs

Understanding the severity guides treatment decisions.

Non-Surgical Treatment Options for Arthritis

Many patients improve significantly without surgery. Common approaches include:

• Anti-inflammatory medications

• Physical therapy

• Supportive footwear

• Custom orthotics

• Steroid or hyaluronic acid injections

• Activity modification

• Weight management

• Bracing or ankle supports

These methods relieve pain, reduce inflammation, and improve mobility.

When Surgery Is Considered for Arthritis in Feet & Ankles

Surgery becomes an option when:

• Pain persists despite conservative treatment

• The joint is severely damaged

• Deformity impacts function

• Walking becomes difficult or unstable

Common surgical options include:

• Joint fusion (arthrodesis) – eliminates painful motion and restores stability

• Joint replacement (ankle arthroplasty) – preserves movement in select ankle arthritis cases

• Osteotomy – realigns bones to reduce pressure on arthritic joints

• Arthroscopic debridement – removes damaged tissue

A foot and ankle orthopedic surgeon helps determine which option fits your condition and lifestyle goals.

Minimally Invasive Trends in Foot and Ankle Surgery

Minimally invasive foot and ankle surgery has gained popularity due to smaller incisions, less tissue disruption, faster recovery, and reduced scarring.

Common Procedures Using Minimally Invasive Techniques:

• Achilles tendon repair

• Ankle arthroscopy

• Toe deformity correction

• Debridement procedures

• Some types of fracture treatment

• Joint preservation surgeries

These techniques require specialized training and technology, making it essential to choose a surgeon experienced in MIS methods.

How to Choose the Right Foot and Ankle Orthopedic Surgeon Near Me

Finding the right surgeon can be overwhelming. Here’s what to consider:

1. Fellowship Training

A foot and ankle fellowship indicates advanced, specialized training.

2. Experience With Your Condition

Choose someone who regularly treats:

• Achilles tendon injuries

• Arthritis

• Foot and ankle deformities

• Chronic pain conditions

• Sports injuries

3. Range of Techniques

The best surgeons offer both:

• Non-surgical and surgical treatments

• Minimally invasive and open surgeries

• Joint preservation and joint replacement options

4. Approach to Patient Care

Look for:

• Clear communication

• Personalized treatment planning

• Evidence-based techniques

• Willingness to explore non-surgical care first

5. Technology & Diagnostic Tools

Advanced care includes:

• Digital imaging

• Biomechanical evaluation

• Modern surgical instruments

• When needed, biologics and regenerative methods

6. Reputation & Patient Feedback

Reviews and referrals can offer insight into surgeon expertise and bedside manner.

Frequently Asked Questions

“Do I need a referral to see a foot and ankle orthopedic surgeon?”

Often no, but it depends on insurance. Self-referral is common.

“Is all foot and ankle pain treated with surgery?”

No. Most conditions are managed non-surgically first.

“How long does recovery take after foot or ankle surgery?”

It depends on the procedure. Minor surgeries may take weeks; major reconstructions may take months.

“Can arthritis in my feet or ankles be cured?”

Arthritis cannot be reversed, but symptoms can be significantly improved through treatment.

“Is minimally invasive surgery always an option?”

Not always. Some deformities and severe arthritis require open procedures.

Final Thoughts & Call to Action

Foot and ankle pain can significantly affect your lifestyle, mobility, and long-term health. But modern orthopedic care offers numerous treatment options - from advanced conservative therapies to minimally invasive surgery - that can restore function and reduce pain.

Seeking a foot and ankle orthopedic surgeon in McKinney is often the first step to understanding your condition and exploring the best treatment path.

For comprehensive evaluation, personalized treatment plans, and advanced expertise in orthopedic surgery foot and ankle, including Achilles tendon sprain treatment and arthritis treatment, you can rely on the specialized care provided by Dr. Eitan Ingall.