Osteosynthesis for fractures of the foot bones
Fractures of the foot bones often present not only with pain but also with disruption of normal gait: it becomes difficult to distribute weight evenly, discomfort appears during weight-bearing, and fatigue develops quickly while walking. The foot consists of multiple bones that form the arches and provide stability and shock absorption, so even a localized injury can affect movement biomechanics. Inaccurate restoration may lead to persistent pain and long-term gait alterations.
Surgical treatment is considered in displaced or unstable fractures of the foot bones, as well as in cases involving the articular surfaces, when conservative management cannot maintain proper alignment. During surgery, precise reduction and stable fixation of bone fragments are essential to restore the arches and coordinated foot movement. This creates conditions for predictable healing and a safe return to weight-bearing. Osteosynthesis is used for fractures of the metatarsals, tarsal bones, and intra-articular injuries when anatomical accuracy is required. This approach helps reduce the risk of arch deformity and post-traumatic joint changes in the foot.
We assess the fracture pattern, load distribution during weight-bearing, and the patient’s daily functional demands. Our goal is to preserve the foot as a unified functional mechanism, ensuring recovery without chronic pain, significant fatigue, or walking limitations.
How fractures of the foot bones affect gait biomechanics
Fractures of the foot bones affect multiple levels of support and movement at once. Even injury to a small bone can disrupt the coordinated function of the foot arches and alter load distribution during walking. As a result, patients may experience not only pain but also changes in gait, a sense of instability, and rapid fatigue with prolonged weight-bearing.
The location of the fracture and its impact on the articular surfaces and ligamentous structures play a crucial role. Injuries to the midfoot and forefoot increase the risk of impaired shock absorption and abnormal load transfer to adjacent joints. We assess the fracture pattern, the degree of displacement, and the overall effect of the injury on foot function to select a treatment strategy aimed at preserving proper gait biomechanics and reducing the risk of chronic pain and long-term functional limitations.
If the anatomical axis and arch height are not accurately restored, overload may shift to the ankle, knee, and even the hip joint. Therefore, in foot bone fractures, it is important to consider not only local bone healing but also the impact of the injury on the kinematics of the entire lower limb.
Restoration of weight-bearing capacity and gait after fractures of the foot bones
In fractures of the foot bones, the treatment outcome depends on how comfortably the foot tolerates prolonged weight-bearing throughout the day. Even after bone healing, dysfunction of the arches or limited mobility of certain segments may lead to rapid fatigue, discomfort while walking, and the need to restrict usual activity. Patients often notice this particularly during prolonged standing or walking longer distances.
After surgical treatment, it is important to gradually adapt the foot to load and restore its endurance. We focus on achieving even pressure distribution during weight-bearing, preserving mobility, and ensuring coordinated function of all foot segments. Excessive restriction of activity or premature overload may negatively affect the outcome, so recovery is structured step by step.
We support the patient throughout the rehabilitation phase, assessing load tolerance and the foot’s response in daily conditions. This approach helps restore confidence while walking, maintain foot endurance, and prevent chronic discomfort during prolonged activity.
Stages of treatment
Online consultation
An online consultation allows you to discuss your condition, complaints, and symptoms in advance. You can submit imaging studies and medical documents, ask questions, and receive a preliminary treatment plan before visiting the clinic.
Examination and 3D surgical planning
All necessary examinations are performed within one day. A CT scan of the joint is conducted, followed by computer-based 3D surgical planning and implant selection to ensure maximum precision.
Surgery
On the second day of the clinic stay, the surgical procedure is performed. Original implants by Stryker Corporation (USA) and the MAKO robotic-assisted system are used, ensuring a high level of precision in implant positioning.
Rehabilitation and follow-up
Recovery begins immediately after surgery. In most cases, you will be able to start walking on the day of the procedure. After discharge, we continue to provide online follow-up care, including recovery guidance, rehabilitation monitoring, and answers to any questions that may arise.
The surgery is performed personally by Zaur Sulumov
The doctor is personally involved in every stage of treatment — from the initial consultation and surgical planning to recovery monitoring and outcome evaluation.
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The duration depends on the type of fracture and the fixation method. On average, surgery lasts from 30 to 120 minutes. In complex or comminuted fractures, operative time may be longer.
The timing of weight-bearing depends on the fracture location and stability of fixation. In some cases, movement is allowed within the first days after surgery, while full weight-bearing depends on the fracture type. For intra-articular fractures, a forced pause of 4–8 weeks may be required, with gradual progression under medical supervision and follow-up X-rays.
There is no pain during the operation due to anesthesia. After surgery, discomfort is managed with a modern pain-control protocol and typically decreases as the fracture heals.
Not always. Implants from leading manufacturers are commonly used, and in most cases plates and screws can remain in the body permanently. Removal is considered individually if there is discomfort or specific medical indications.
Average bone healing time ranges from 6 to 12 weeks, but this may vary depending on the patient’s age, fracture type, and overall health condition.
Rehabilitation focuses on restoring movement, muscle strength, and limb function. The program is individualized and may include physical therapy, physiotherapy, and gradual increase of load.
Not all fractures require surgical treatment. However, in cases of fragment displacement, instability, or risk of improper healing, osteosynthesis ensures accurate alignment and improves the functional outcome.