If you’re dealing with foot or ankle pain, injuries, or ongoing discomfort that impacts your daily life, Advanced Orthopaedic Associates is here to assist you.Â
Our fellowship-trained and board-certified orthopedic specialists diagnose and treat foot and ankle conditions. They provide advanced surgical and nonsurgical services to help patients in Wichita, Wellington, and Winfield, Kansas, regain their mobility.Â
Common Foot & Ankle Conditions We Treat
Foot and ankle problems can severely limit your ability to stay active, even making regular daily tasks uncomfortable and difficult. We treat a wide range of these conditions, including:
- Plantar Fasciitis: This common condition causes heel pain and stiffness, especially in the morning. It’s often caused by inflammation of the tissue connecting your heel to your toes.
- Bunions:Â Bunions are painful bony bumps at the base of the big toe. They can make it difficult to wear shoes or walk comfortably.
- Achilles Tendon Injuries:Â These injuries often occur in active individuals and can be minor strains or complete ruptures of the tendon.
- Ankle Fractures:Â Broken ankles can result from accidents, sports injuries, or falls. Proper diagnosis and treatment are essential for healing and preventing complications.
If you’re experiencing foot or ankle pain, swelling, or reduced mobility, don’t ignore it. Our team will evaluate your condition and create a personalized treatment plan that works for you.
What to Expect During Surgery
Foot and ankle surgery will vary depending on the type of procedure you need, but we know that understanding the general process can help you feel more prepared.Â
Most foot and ankle surgeries are performed on an outpatient basis, meaning you’ll likely go home the same day as your procedure. However, more complex surgeries or those involving significant reconstruction may require an overnight stay in the hospital. Here's what you can expect before, during, and after:Â
- Before Surgery: Your surgeon will provide clear instructions to help you prepare, which may include fasting the night before your procedure and arranging for someone to drive you home. On the day of your surgery, you’ll meet with your care team to review your procedure and ask any last-minute questions.
- During Surgery:Â Depending on the type of surgery, the procedure may take anywhere from one to several hours. Local, regional, or general anesthesia will keep you comfortable throughout. We will try to use minimally invasive techniques whenever possible to reduce the size of incisions and speed up recovery time.
- After Surgery: You’ll be moved to a recovery area where your care team will monitor you as the anesthesia wears off. Once you’re stable and comfortable, you’ll receive detailed post-operative instructions, including how to care for your surgical site, manage any discomfort, and follow weight-bearing restrictions if needed.
Post-Surgical Care and Rehabilitation
Recovering from foot or ankle surgery takes time, but our team will support you every step of the way.
- Follow-Up Appointments: We’ll schedule regular visits to monitor your healing progress and make any necessary adjustments to your recovery plan.
- Physical Therapy:Â Physical therapy is often a key part of your recovery. Our specialists will guide you through exercises to restore strength, flexibility, and mobility.
- Personalized Recovery Plans: Every patient’s recovery is different. We’ll work with you to create a plan that fits your needs and helps you return to your normal activities.
Meet Our Foot & Ankle Specialists
At Advanced Orthopaedic Associates, our specialists have extensive training in foot and ankle care.
Dr. John A. Childs, DO:Â Dr. Childs is a fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeon specializing in foot and ankle disorders. With a focus on innovative care, he has been helping patients in Wichita and beyond since 2019.
Dr. John W. Fanning, MD:Â Dr. Fanning has over two decades of experience in foot and ankle surgery. Born and raised in Wichita, he combines local roots with exceptional training, making him a trusted choice for patients in the community.
Whether you're dealing with an injury, chronic pain, or mobility challenges, our specialists are dedicated to helping you find relief and get back to the activities you enjoy.Â
Frequently Asked Questions
Persistent pain, swelling, or difficulty walking are signs that surgery may be necessary. If conservative treatments aren’t helping, it’s time to consult a specialist.
Your physician will assess your condition and explore non-surgical options first. Surgery is only recommended when other treatments aren’t effective.
Yes, our team specializes in both surgical and nonsurgical treatments, ensuring the best approach for your specific needs. Whether you’re dealing with a mild injury, chronic pain, or a more complex condition, we explore conservative treatments first and recommend surgery only when necessary.
As with any surgery, foot and ankle procedures can have some risks, but they are rare. Potential risks include infection, blood clots, nerve or blood vessel injury, delayed healing, or residual pain or stiffness. Adverse reactions to anesthesia are also possible but uncommon.
Our surgeons take every precaution to minimize these risks and ensure your safety. Feel free to discuss any concerns with us during your consultation.
Schedule Your Consultation and Get Back on Your Feet
Don’t let foot or ankle pain hold you back any longer. Call Advanced Orthopaedic Associates at (316) 631-1600 to schedule your consultation today. Our specialists are here to provide the care you need to regain strength and mobility.Â