By Gardner Orthopedics | Fort Myers, FL

Foot and ankle problems don’t just slow you down — they affect your balance, your gait, and your quality of life. Whether it’s a bunion that makes walking painful, a hammertoe that rubs against your shoe, or an old injury that never healed properly, foot and ankle deformities are not something you have to live with.

At Gardner Orthopedics, we help patients across Fort Myers move better, feel better, and stand stronger — sometimes with the help of corrective foot and ankle surgery.

What Are Foot and Ankle Deformities?

These are structural issues that change the alignment of bones, tendons, and joints in your feet and ankles. Some are congenital (present from birth), while others develop over time due to injury, arthritis, or chronic strain.

“We see patients every week who have lived with painful foot deformities for years,” says Dr. Ron Gardner, board-certified orthopedic surgeon. “The good news is that today’s surgical techniques are far more effective and far less invasive than they used to be.”

Common Conditions We Treat Surgically

1. Bunions (Hallux Valgus)

A bony bump forms on the inside of the big toe joint, often causing pain, swelling, and shoe discomfort.

Surgical options:

  • Realignment of the bone and soft tissue

  • Removal of the bony prominence

  • Minimal-incision techniques in some cases

2. Hammertoes

One or more toes bend downward at the middle joint, often causing corns, pain, and difficulty walking.

Surgical options:

  • Tendon lengthening or release

  • Joint fusion or realignment

  • In-office procedures in mild cases

3. Flat Feet (Adult-Acquired Flatfoot)

The arch collapses, leading to pain, swelling, and overpronation. Left untreated, it may worsen and cause ankle instability.

Surgical options:

  • Tendon reconstruction

  • Arch restoration or joint fusion

  • Heel bone repositioning (osteotomy)

4. Ankle Instability or Deformity

Repeated ankle sprains or improper healing can cause misalignment or instability, especially in active individuals.

Surgical options:

  • Ligament repair or reinforcement

  • Joint realignment or stabilization

  • Reconstructive procedures when arthritis is present

When Is Surgery Recommended?

We always start with conservative treatments like bracing, orthotics, physical therapy, and injections. However, surgery is considered when:

  • Pain persists despite non-surgical care

  • The deformity is worsening

  • There’s nerve compression, poor balance, or daily function impairment

  • Shoe options become severely limited

“Surgery is never our first recommendation, but it’s often the most effective long-term solution when the deformity interferes with daily life,” Dr. Gardner explains.

What to Expect from Surgery and Recovery

  • Most procedures are outpatient and use local anesthesia or light sedation

  • Minimally invasive approaches are used whenever possible

  • Recovery times range from 2 to 8 weeks, depending on the procedure

  • Post-op care often includes a walking boot, home exercises, or brief physical therapy

Many patients also benefit from Activation Medical IVs post-surgery to support faster healing, reduce swelling, and promote tissue regeneration.

Real Case: Bunion Surgery That Changed Everything

A Gardner Ortho Patient, a 68-year-old retired teacher, struggled with painful bunions that made walking uncomfortable. After trying orthotics for years, she opted for a realignment procedure. Within 6 weeks, she was back to her walking routine — pain-free and thrilled to wear normal shoes again.

Are You a Candidate for Corrective Foot or Ankle Surgery?

If you’re dealing with foot pain, difficulty walking, or a visible deformity that affects your quality of life, don’t wait. Surgical options are more effective, less invasive, and more accessible than ever.

📞 Schedule your foot and ankle consultation at Gardner Orthopedics today to review your options and take the first step toward lasting relief.

About Gardner Orthopedics

Gardner Orthopedics is a full-service orthopedic clinic in Fort Myers, Florida, led by Dr. Ron Gardner. Our services include foot and ankle surgery, orthopedic care, regenerative medicine, pain management, Activation Medical IVs, and wellness-focused evaluations like Platinum Physicals — all delivered with patient-first care and surgical precision.

📍 3033 Winkler Ave. Ste. 100, Fort Myers, FL 33916
📞 Call: 1-239-277-7070
🌐 Visit: www.gardnerorthopedics.com

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