Cosmetic foot surgery implies undertaking surgery to simply improve the visual appearance of the foot. This is controversial, and Orthopaedic surgeons in general do not believe in performing surgery purely for cosmetic reasons. We know that the potential complications associated with Orthopaedic foot surgery are serious and cannot be underestimated. Whilst most people have good results, some will be no better, and others may be worse off. Therefore, pain and dysfunction are important symptoms, and we as Orthopaedic surgeons specifically look for these problems when we first consult with you.

Ongoing pain after an ankle sprain is common and can be due to peroneal tendon problems. In this article, I describe the range of problems that can affect the peroneal tendons, and the treatment options available, including the role of keyhole surgery.

The most common cause of a painful flat foot is damage to the tibialis posterior tendon. This important structure runs on the inside of the ankle and is the principal stabiliser of the arch. This problem is also known as Adult Acquired Flat Foot deformity and usually occurs in middle-aged females, most of whom have had a slightly flat foot all their lives. The tendon stretches out over time and becomes less able to carry out its important functions. Occasionally an injury results in the tendon rupturing. Another common cause is an accessory (extra) navicular bone.

The ankle is the most commonly injured joint in the body. This is related to increasing participation in sport, as well as people generally leading a more active lifestyle. Accordingly, we are seeing more ankle fractures and sprains presenting to our Accident and Emergency departments. Whilst the majority of these injuries heal uneventfully, a small proportion of patients will go on to develop ‘wear and tear’ or ankle arthritis. Although not as common as hip and knee arthritis, ankle arthritis has steadily become more common, and the trend upwards.