Orthopaedics · Jaipur Hospital
Hand, Foot and Ankle Surgery in Jaipur
When a hand or foot problem limits your day, Jaipur Hospital offers a clear assessment, honest options and a plan.
- Serving Jaipur since 1991 (35 years)
- NABH accredited
- 24×7 emergency & ICU
- Cashless: RGHS, MAA Yojana, CGHS + 32 insurers
- Operation time
- 30 min to 2 hours
- Anaesthesia
- Regional block, spinal or general anaesthesia
- Recovery
- 4 to 8 weeks for most hand surgery6 to 12 weeks for most foot and ankle surgery
- Price
- ₹30,000 to ₹2,00,000typical range in India; ask us for an estimate
When hands or feet limit you
Your hand or foot is holding you back
You may have a weak grip, a bunion that makes shoes difficult, heel pain with the first steps, or a foot that is flattening. These problems can affect work, sleep and daily tasks. You want a clear diagnosis, practical options and a plan you can follow.
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A weak grip
Severe carpal tunnel syndrome can weaken pinch grip and affect hand function.
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A painful bunion
A bunion is a bony bump near the big toe that can make footwear difficult.
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Heel pain at first steps
Plantar heel pain is often worse on the first steps after rest and during weight bearing.
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A foot that flattens
A flat foot may begin flexible and become stiff as the deformity progresses.
Carpal tunnel syndrome is caused by compression of the median nerve as it travels through the carpal tunnel.
Why Jaipur Hospital
You may be worried about pain, time off work, the cost, or how your hand or foot will look.
Your care plan
Your first steps with us
- 1 Call us to book an orthopaedic OPD visit.
- 2 Meet your surgeon and explain your symptoms.
- 3 Get scans, tests and a clear plan with a cost estimate.
- 4 Have treatment, then follow-up visits and therapy as needed.
how the operation is done
Your surgeon will assess the hand, wrist, foot or ankle, review your scans and explain the options. Operation time is usually 30 minutes to 2 hours. Anaesthesia is usually a regional block, spinal or general.
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Carpal Tunnel Release
Open or endoscopic decompression of the median nerve. Your surgeon will discuss which option suits you.
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Trigger Finger Release
Release of the A1 pulley for stenosing tenosynovitis. Your surgeon will discuss this option.
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Dupuytren's Contracture Release
Fasciotomy or fasciectomy to release a finger contracture. Your surgeon will discuss which option fits you.
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Tendon/Nerve Repair
Repair of flexor or extensor tendons, or of digital nerves, after injury. Your surgeon will discuss this option.
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Bunion (Hallux Valgus) Correction
Osteotomy and soft tissue balancing to realign the big toe. Your surgeon will discuss this option.
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Hammer Toe Correction
Tendon release or joint fusion to straighten a lesser toe. Your surgeon will discuss this option.
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Flat Foot Reconstruction
Tendon transfer and osteotomy when orthotics and therapy have not helped. Your surgeon will discuss this option.
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Heel Pain Treatment
Stretching, orthotics and injections first; plantar fascia release only if these fail. Your surgeon will discuss this option.
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Ankle Fracture Fixation
Plates and screws to hold broken ankle bones in position. Your surgeon will discuss this option.
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Ankle Arthritis Surgery
Ankle fusion or replacement when non-surgical care has not helped. Your surgeon will discuss this option.
Why patients trust us
- 1991 Serving Jaipur for 35 years
- NABH Accredited hospital
- 5 Orthopaedics consultants
- 24×7 Emergency, ICU and ambulance
- 35 Cashless schemes and insurers
What research shows about these operations
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one week earlier
In one comparison, patients returned to work about one week earlier after endoscopic carpal tunnel release.
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7.8%
Deformity recurrence was reported at this rate in some bunion surgery studies.
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9.8%
Wound healing problems were the most common complication after ankle arthrodesis in a review.
If it is left untreated
Without treatment, a compressed nerve can be injured by repeated pressure and traction. A flat foot that starts flexible can become stiff and painful as the deformity progresses. An ankle fracture that is out of line may need surgery.
Life after treatment
Most people need time and therapy after surgery. Hand surgery usually takes 4 to 8 weeks to recover from, and foot or ankle surgery 6 to 12 weeks. Your plan will be based on your condition.
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Hand recovery
Most hand surgery takes 4 to 8 weeks to recover from, with hand therapy if needed.
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Foot and ankle recovery
Most foot and ankle surgery takes 6 to 12 weeks to recover from, with a boot or cast for part of this time.
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Therapy support
Hand therapy or physiotherapy usually forms part of the recovery plan.
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Follow-up visits
Follow-up visits check healing and help you plan a return to work.
Frequently asked questions
Questions patients ask about hand, foot and ankle surgery
Which hand, wrist, foot and ankle problems are treated under this service?
In short
Jaipur Hospital treats a wide range of hand, wrist, foot and ankle conditions through its Hand, Foot and Ankle Surgery service. Common problems include carpal tunnel syndrome, trigger finger, Dupuytren's contracture, tendon and nerve injuries, bunions, hammer toes, flat foot deformity, heel pain, ankle fractures and ankle arthritis.
In detail
The service covers both non-surgical and surgical care. For the hand and wrist, techniques include open or endoscopic carpal tunnel release, A1 pulley release for trigger finger, fasciotomy or fasciectomy for Dupuytren's contracture, and repair of flexor or extensor tendons and digital nerves.
For the foot and ankle, options include osteotomy and soft tissue balancing for bunions, tendon release or joint fusion for hammer toes, tendon transfer and osteotomy for flat foot reconstruction, plantar fascia release for heel pain that has not responded to stretching, orthotics or injections, plate and screw fixation for ankle fractures, and ankle fusion or replacement for end-stage arthritis. The choice depends on the specific diagnosis, severity and how you have responded to earlier treatment.
A common belief
Many people think they must live with hand numbness or foot deformity.
What actually happens
In fact, both non-surgical and surgical options exist for each condition, and early assessment often leads to simpler treatment.
Your next step at Jaipur Hospital
Your surgeon will examine you, review any imaging and discuss which options suit your condition. Most operations take 30 minutes to 2 hours under regional, spinal or general anaesthesia. Hospital stay ranges from daycare to 2 nights.
Recovery is typically 4 to 8 weeks for hand surgery and 6 to 12 weeks for foot and ankle surgery.
What causes numbness and tingling in the hand?
In short
Numbness and tingling in the hand are most often caused by compression of the median nerve at the wrist, known as carpal tunnel syndrome. At Jaipur Hospital, the surgeon assesses whether the symptoms come from the carpal tunnel or from other sites such as the neck or elbow.
In detail
The carpal tunnel is a narrow passage formed by wrist bones and the transverse carpal ligament. The median nerve and nine tendons pass through it.
Increased pressure in the tunnel compresses the nerve, reducing blood flow and causing numbness in the thumb, index, middle and radial half of the ring finger. Pressure rises with wrist flexion or extension, and fluid redistribution at night worsens symptoms.
Risk factors include female sex, age, repetitive wrist use, diabetes, thyroid disease, pregnancy and wrist trauma. Other causes of hand numbness include ulnar nerve compression at the elbow (cubital tunnel), cervical radiculopathy, and peripheral neuropathy from diabetes.
Your next step at Jaipur Hospital
If numbness wakes you at night, affects your grip, or lasts more than a few weeks, book a consultation. The surgeon will test sensation, strength and nerve irritability, and may order nerve conduction studies or ultrasound.
Initial treatment often includes wrist splinting at night, activity modification, and sometimes a steroid injection. Surgery (carpal tunnel release) is considered when symptoms are severe or do not improve.
What is a bunion and when does it need surgery?
In short
A bunion, or hallux valgus, is a bony bump at the base of the big toe where the joint drifts toward the second toe. At Jaipur Hospital, surgery is considered when non-surgical measures such as wider shoes, orthotics and pain relief no longer control symptoms. Typical indications include persistent pain, difficulty walking, restricted toe movement, chronic swelling, recurrent bursitis and trouble finding footwear that fits.
In detail
The deformity develops from a combination of inherited foot shape, joint laxity and footwear pressure. Over time the first metatarsal shifts outward and the big toe angles inward, crowding the lesser toes.
Surgical correction involves an osteotomy to realign the metatarsal, soft tissue balancing to centre the joint, and fixation with small screws or plates. The operation takes 30 minutes to two hours under regional or general anaesthesia. Hospital stay ranges from daycare to two nights.
Recovery for foot and ankle surgery is typically six to twelve weeks. Evidence shows that osteotomy with soft tissue balancing gives reliable correction and pain relief for moderate to severe deformity.
A common belief
Many people believe a bunion is only a cosmetic issue.
What actually happens
In fact, the joint misalignment changes how weight passes through the foot, leading to pain, arthritis and deformity of the lesser toes. Surgery realigns the bone and balances the soft tissues, not just shaves the bump.
Your next step at Jaipur Hospital
Your surgeon will assess the severity with weight-bearing X-rays and discuss whether surgery matches your goals. You will receive guidance on pre-operative tests, fasting and arranging an attendant.
After surgery you will wear a protective shoe or cast, keep weight off the front of the foot for several weeks, and attend physiotherapy. Follow-up visits monitor bone healing and alignment.
How will the doctor decide which tests I need?
In short
The doctor at Jaipur Hospital decides which tests you need based on your symptoms, physical examination findings and the suspected condition. For hand and wrist problems, nerve conduction studies or ultrasound may be ordered to confirm carpal tunnel syndrome or assess nerve severity. For foot and ankle conditions, weight-bearing X-rays are standard to evaluate alignment, joint space and deformity. MRI or CT is used when soft tissue detail or complex bone anatomy is required.
In detail
Evidence shows that patients with typical carpal tunnel symptoms often do not need extra tests before surgery, but electrodiagnostic studies help determine severity and surgical prognosis. For flatfoot, standing X-rays measure angles such as the talonavicular coverage and Meary's angle to stage the deformity.
Ultrasound or MRI visualises the posterior tibial tendon and spring ligament. For plantar fasciitis, ultrasound confirms fascia thickening and rules out a tear. For ankle arthritis, X-rays grade joint space narrowing and osteophytes. The surgeon selects only the tests that will change management, avoiding unnecessary radiation or cost.
A common belief
Patients sometimes expect a full panel of scans.
What actually happens
In reality, the surgeon orders only what will change the plan. Unnecessary tests add cost and delay without improving outcomes. The choice is guided by clinical guidelines and the specific question each test answers.
Your next step at Jaipur Hospital
At your consultation the surgeon will take a focused history, examine the affected area, and explain which tests are indicated and why. You will be told where to have them done, whether fasting is needed, and when to return with results. The tests are usually completed within a few days.
Will I go home the same day after hand, foot or ankle surgery at Jaipur Hospital?
In short
At Jaipur Hospital, many hand, foot and ankle surgeries are done as daycare procedures, meaning you can go home the same day. However, some operations or patient factors may require an overnight stay or up to two nights in hospital. The expected length of stay is discussed during your preoperative consultation.
In detail
Our usual protocols indicate hospital stay ranges from daycare to two nights for this specialty. Carpal tunnel release, trigger finger release, and some bunion or hammer toe corrections are often daycare.
More extensive procedures like flatfoot reconstruction, ankle fracture fixation, ankle fusion, or ankle replacement typically need one to two nights for pain control, monitoring, and initial mobilisation.
Factors that may extend stay include the type of anaesthesia (general anaesthesia may require longer observation than a regional block), your medical conditions (such as diabetes or cardiac disease), surgical complexity, and how well pain and nausea are controlled after surgery.
The anaesthesia team assesses fitness for daycare discharge during the pre-anaesthesia check-up. You must have a responsible adult to accompany you home and stay with you for the first 24 hours after daycare surgery.
A common belief
Patients often assume all orthopaedic surgery needs a long hospital stay.
What actually happens
Modern anaesthesia and surgical techniques allow safe same-day discharge for many hand and foot operations, but patient safety decides the final plan, not a fixed rule.
Your next step at Jaipur Hospital
Your surgeon will confirm the expected stay when the surgery is scheduled. Pre-operative tests and anaesthesia review are completed beforehand. On the day of surgery, you arrive fasting, and the team marks the surgical site. After surgery, you recover in the post-anaesthesia care unit.
Discharge criteria include stable vital signs, controlled pain, ability to take oral fluids, and safe mobilisation with any prescribed aids. To know the likely stay for your specific procedure, book a consultation at Jaipur Hospital.
How much does hand, foot or ankle surgery cost at Jaipur Hospital?
In short
At Jaipur Hospital, the typical price range for hand, foot and ankle surgery is ₹30,000 to ₹2,00,000. This range covers procedures such as carpal tunnel release, trigger finger release, bunion correction, hammer toe correction, flat foot reconstruction, ankle fracture fixation and ankle arthritis surgery. The final amount depends on the specific operation, implants used, length of stay and any additional treatments.
In detail
The cost range reflects the variety of procedures offered. Daycare procedures like carpal tunnel release or trigger finger release are at the lower end.
Surgeries needing implants, such as plates and screws for ankle fracture fixation or an ankle replacement prosthesis, are at the higher end. Hospital stay can be daycare up to two nights. Additional charges may apply for pre-operative tests, physiotherapy, medications or special implants.
Insurance coverage varies by policy. Government schemes such as RGHS, MAA Yojana and CGHS are accepted at Jaipur Hospital, along with a panel of private insurers and TPAs.
A common belief
Many patients assume the quoted price covers everything.
What actually happens
Extra costs can come from pre-op tests, physiotherapy, special implants or a longer stay. Insurance may not cover all items, so check your policy details early.
Your next step at Jaipur Hospital
Ask the admissions team for an estimate based on your surgeon's plan. Bring your insurance card and any scheme documents to the OPD. The team will verify coverage and explain any out-of-pocket amount.
Which symptoms in my hand or wrist should prompt me to see a specialist?
In short
You should see a specialist at Jaipur Hospital if you have numbness or tingling in the thumb, index, middle or ring fingers, especially at night; weakness or clumsiness when gripping; a clicking or locking finger; a lump or cord in the palm that pulls a finger down; or wrist pain that limits daily tasks.
In detail
Numbness and tingling in the median nerve distribution often point to carpal tunnel syndrome, caused by compression of the median nerve in the carpal tunnel. Trigger finger presents as catching or locking when bending the finger, due to thickening of the A1 pulley.
Dupuytren's contracture shows as a firm cord in the palm that gradually pulls one or more fingers into a bent position. Tendon or nerve injuries may cause inability to bend or straighten a finger, or loss of sensation.
These symptoms suggest structural problems that a hand surgeon can assess with clinical examination and, if needed, nerve conduction studies or ultrasound.
Your next step at Jaipur Hospital
If any of these symptoms persist for more than a few weeks, worsen at night, or interfere with work or sleep, book an appointment. The surgeon will examine your hand, check nerve function, and may order tests.
Non-surgical options such as splinting, steroid injections or therapy are tried first for many conditions. Surgery is considered when symptoms are severe or do not improve.
What is carpal tunnel syndrome and how is it treated?
In short
Carpal tunnel syndrome is compression of the median nerve at the wrist, causing numbness, tingling and weakness in the hand. At Jaipur Hospital, treatment starts with splinting, activity changes and sometimes a steroid injection; surgery (carpal tunnel release) is offered when these do not help.
In detail
The carpal tunnel is a tight space bounded by wrist bones and the transverse carpal ligament. The median nerve and nine flexor tendons run through it. When pressure rises — from tendon swelling, fluid shifts, or wrist position — the nerve is compressed.
This causes numbness in the thumb, index, middle and half of the ring finger, often worse at night. In studies, local corticosteroid injection can relieve symptoms for more than a month and delay surgery at one year.
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, diuretics and vitamin B6 are not effective. Surgical release cuts the transverse carpal ligament to decompress the nerve, done either open or endoscopically. Both techniques are equally effective.
Operation time is 30 minutes to 2 hours under regional block, spinal or general anaesthesia. Hospital stay is daycare to 2 nights. Recovery is 4 to 8 weeks.
A common belief
Some people try painkillers or vitamins, but evidence shows they do not work.
What actually happens
Splinting and injection are the proven non-surgical steps before surgery.
Your next step at Jaipur Hospital
If you have night-time numbness, dropping objects, or weak pinch grip, see the surgeon. Nerve conduction studies may confirm severity. Mild to moderate cases try splinting and a steroid injection first.
If symptoms persist beyond 4 to 6 months or are severe, carpal tunnel release is recommended. The typical price range in India is ₹30,000 to ₹2,00,000; ask for an estimate.
What is a hammer toe and how is it corrected?
In short
A hammer toe is a deformity where a lesser toe bends downward at the middle joint, causing pressure and pain on the top of the toe. At Jaipur Hospital, correction is considered when shoe changes, padding and toe exercises no longer relieve discomfort. Surgery straightens the toe by releasing the tight tendon or fusing the bent joint, depending on whether the deformity is flexible or fixed.
In detail
The deformity usually results from muscle imbalance, tight footwear or a longer second toe that crowds the shoe. In a flexible hammer toe the surgeon releases the contracted tendon to allow the toe to lie flat.
In a fixed deformity a small piece of bone is removed and the joint is fused with a pin or screw to hold it straight. The operation takes 30 minutes to two hours under regional or general anaesthesia. Most patients go home the same day.
A special surgical shoe is worn for three to six weeks to protect the correction. Stitches are removed at about two weeks and any temporary pin comes out at three to six weeks. Recovery for foot surgery is typically six to twelve weeks.
A common belief
People often think a hammer toe is only a shoe-fitting problem.
What actually happens
The bent joint changes pressure under the foot and can lead to calluses, metatarsal pain and difficulty walking. Surgery restores a straight toe and rebalances the forces across the forefoot.
Your next step at Jaipur Hospital
Your surgeon will examine the toe, check its flexibility, and take weight-bearing X-rays. You will receive instructions on fasting, stopping certain medicines and arranging an attendant. After surgery you will wear the protective shoe, keep the foot elevated, and apply ice to reduce swelling. Physiotherapy may be advised to maintain mobility of the other toes. Follow-up visits check wound healing and alignment.
What treatment options might be considered for my hand, foot or ankle condition?
In short
Treatment options at Jaipur Hospital depend on the specific condition and its severity. Non-surgical care such as splinting, physiotherapy, orthotics, medication and injections is usually tried first. Surgery is considered when these measures do not give enough relief.
In detail
Evidence shows that for carpal tunnel syndrome, splinting, corticosteroid injections and therapy can help in mild to moderate cases. For trigger finger, splinting and injections are first-line options. For bunions, wider shoes, orthotics and pain relief are initial steps.
Flat foot is managed with orthoses, stretching and strengthening. Plantar fasciitis responds to stretching, orthotics, shockwave therapy and injections. Ankle arthritis starts with physiotherapy, medications and injections.
Surgery such as carpal tunnel release, trigger finger release, bunion correction, flat foot reconstruction, plantar fascia release, ankle fracture fixation or ankle fusion or replacement is offered when non-surgical care fails.
A common belief
Many people assume surgery is the first step.
What actually happens
In reality, guidelines recommend trying non-surgical measures for several months first, unless the condition is severe or caused by acute injury.
Your next step at Jaipur Hospital
Your surgeon will examine you, review imaging and discuss which options suit your condition and lifestyle. A plan is made after this assessment. Most hand surgeries need 4 to 8 weeks recovery; foot and ankle surgeries need 6 to 12 weeks.
FAQ library
Questions and answers about hand, foot and ankle surgery
When you contact us
Get a clear plan from Jaipur Hospital
Contact us to book an orthopaedic OPD consultation and have your hand, wrist, foot or ankle problem assessed.
- A consultation with an orthopaedic surgeon in the OPD
- Your scans and reports reviewed, with tests done in-house if you need them (laboratory, X-ray and imaging)
- Your options explained in plain words, including whether you need surgery at all
- A cost estimate before you decide
- Help with cashless treatment under RGHS, MAA Yojana, CGHS and empanelled insurers and TPAs
- Follow-up visits after your treatment
Overview
Hand, Foot and Ankle Surgery: what to know
What Hand, Foot and Ankle Surgery Treats
- about 3.8% of the general population Carpal tunnel syndrome
- 23% of adults aged 18 to 65 Bunion (hallux valgus)
- 2% to 23% of the adult population Flatfoot
Hand, foot and ankle surgery covers conditions of the bones, joints, tendons, nerves and ligaments of the hand, wrist, foot and ankle.
Carpal tunnel syndrome is the most common peripheral nerve entrapment syndrome worldwide. It happens when the median nerve is squeezed and pulled as it passes through the carpal tunnel, a narrow passage at the wrist formed by the carpal bones and a strong ligament.
The nerve carries feeling and movement to part of the hand, so pressure produces a group of symptoms. It is present in about 3.8% of the general population and is more common in women.
A bunion, or hallux valgus, is a deformity of the big toe joint. An estimated 23% of adults aged 18 to 65 and 35.7% of people older than 65 have it, and it is more common in women.
Adult acquired flatfoot deformity typically affects middle-aged and elderly women and causes foot pain, poor alignment and loss of function. Flatfoot affects 2% to 23% of the adult population.
Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain.
An ankle fracture is a break in one or more ankle bones, sometimes partial, sometimes on one or both sides, and sometimes where a ligament was injured or torn.
Other problems we treat include:
- Trigger finger
- Dupuytren's contracture
- Tendon and nerve injuries
- Hammer toe
- Ankle arthritis
Symptoms of Hand, Foot and Ankle Problems and Warning Signs
- Infection signs Fever with spreading redness, warmth, pus or red streaks from a wound
- Pain not improving Pain that does not improve after the pain medicine you were given
- Fainting or severe breathing trouble Fainting or severe trouble breathing after surgery
Symptoms depend on which structure is affected. In carpal tunnel syndrome, pressure on the median nerve produces a group of symptoms, and severe cases can weaken the pinch grip and impair motor function.
A bunion may cause:
- Persistent pain
- Difficulty walking
- A visible shift of the big toe towards the second toe
- Stiffness
- Swelling and redness
- Trouble finding footwear
Flatfoot often starts as a flexible flat foot that becomes rigid as the condition progresses. You may feel pain along the inner side of the foot, and in more severe stages pain on the outer side too.
There may be tenderness and swelling behind the inner ankle bone, and walking can become difficult because the foot cannot change shape through gait.
Later in the disease, pain may lessen after the posterior tibial tendon stretches or tears, so the absence of pain does not rule out the problem.
Heel pain from plantar fasciitis is usually worst with the first step after rest and during weight bearing. It may continue despite orthoses and pain relief.
Some problems need urgent care the same day. Fever with spreading redness, warmth, pus or red streaks from a wound may mean infection. Pain that does not improve after the pain medicine you were given needs a call to your surgeon.
After a leg cast or ankle surgery, calf pain, leg swelling, chest pain or sudden breathlessness need emergency care, because a clot can travel to the lung and this can be fatal. Fainting or severe trouble breathing after surgery also needs emergency care.
Causes and Risk Factors for Hand, Foot and Ankle Conditions
- Carpal tunnel syndrome
- Compression and traction of the median nerve; wrist position changes pressure
- Bunions
- More common in women; constricting footwear and family history are factors
- Flatfoot
- Degeneration of the posterior tibial tendon; obesity, injury, tight calf, inflammatory disorders
- Plantar fasciitis
- Accounts for about 8% of running injuries; BMI above 27 is a significant link
Carpal tunnel syndrome is caused by compression and traction of the median nerve in the carpal tunnel. Pressure inside the tunnel changes with wrist position: extending the wrist can raise it about ten-fold and flexing it about eight-fold. Tenosynovitis is closely linked to idiopathic carpal tunnel syndrome. Diabetes is linked with carpal tunnel syndrome.
Bunions are more common in women. Constricting footwear and family history are predisposing factors.
Flatfoot usually begins with degeneration of the posterior tibial tendon, which normally holds up the arch. Repetitive loading and micromechanical trauma lead to tendon dysfunction. Obesity, foot shape, acute injury and a tight calf can increase the force on the tendon. Inflammatory disorders such as rheumatoid arthritis, hypertension, diabetes and steroid use may start or speed up the problem. Symptomatic flatfoot is also associated with a higher body mass index.
Plantar heel pain accounts for an estimated 8% of running injuries. A body mass index above 27 was the only significant clinical association in one study of plantar fasciitis.
How We Diagnose Hand, Foot and Ankle Problems
- Flatfoot
- AP radiograph checks talus, navicular and first metatarsal; Silfverskiold test checks calf tightness
- Plantar fasciopathy
- Imaging shows thicker, hypoechogenic plantar fascia with increased vascular signal
- Ankle arthritis
- Ankle pain with X-ray changes defines symptomatic radiographic arthritis
Your surgeon will examine the affected part and, for foot and ankle problems, watch how you walk and stand.
In carpal tunnel syndrome, typical symptoms and signs do not need extra testing. If surgery is planned, electrodiagnostic studies help judge severity and surgical prognosis. Ultrasound of the median nerve cross-section at the wrist is accurate and may be offered. It adds information to electrical tests and can show structural abnormalities. A cross-sectional area of 9 mm² or more at the tunnel inlet is a strong single diagnostic criterion.
Flatfoot is diagnosed with clinical and radiographic evaluation. On an AP radiograph, the relationship between the talus, navicular and first metatarsal is checked. The talo-first metatarsal angle is raised in flatfoot, and the talonavicular coverage angle shows forefoot abduction.
The Silfverskiold test checks whether a tight calf muscle, rather than the Achilles tendon, limits ankle dorsiflexion, and normal ankle dorsiflexion is 20 degrees.
In plantar fasciopathy, imaging shows a thicker, hypoechogenic plantar fascia with increased vascular signal.
Ankle fractures are followed with repeated X-rays. In ankle arthritis, ankle pain with X-ray changes defines symptomatic radiographic arthritis.
Treatment Without Surgery and When Surgery Is Advised
- nearly 90% improved function and satisfaction Flatfoot non-surgical success
- only 11% needed surgery over two years Flatfoot surgery rate
- About 1 in 10 people do not feel better after months Heel pain not improving
- preferably within the first day Ankle fracture surgery timing
Non-surgical care is usually tried first.
In carpal tunnel syndrome, splinting, steroid injections, physiotherapy, therapeutic ultrasound and yoga are options. Anti-inflammatory drugs, diuretics and vitamin B6 are not effective. A local corticosteroid injection can give relief for more than one month and delay surgery at one year. Surgery is offered when symptoms are severe or have not improved after four to six months of conservative treatment.
For a bunion, wider shoes, orthotics and pain medicine are tried first, with shoe modification, toe pads, positioning devices and activity changes. Surgery is considered when these fail.
For flatfoot, orthoses and exercise are common first steps. In one series, a structured programme of orthosis and exercise improved function and satisfaction in nearly 90% of patients, and only 11% needed surgery over two years. Surgery is recommended if symptoms remain after about six months of non-operative treatment, though this time can vary with the deformity. It may be considered sooner after an acute injury such as a fracture or tendon rupture.
For heel pain, options include anti-inflammatory drugs, steroid injections, orthoses and physiotherapy. A single ultrasound-guided steroid injection gave more relief than placebo at four weeks, but not beyond four weeks. About 1 in 10 people do not feel better after months of non-surgical treatment. Surgery is considered only when these measures fail.
For end-stage ankle arthritis, total ankle replacement and ankle fusion are the main surgical options when non-surgical care has not given enough relief.
For ankle fractures, surgery may be needed when the bone ends are out of line, the break extends into the joint, tendons or ligaments are torn, or healing may not happen properly without it. These fractures are preferably treated within the first day, because delay is linked with more infectious wound complications.
At Jaipur Hospital, operation time is usually 30 minutes to 2 hours, and anaesthesia is typically a regional block, spinal or general anaesthesia. Hospital stay is usually daycare to 2 nights. Recovery is usually 4 to 8 weeks for most hand surgery and 6 to 12 weeks for most foot and ankle surgery.
The typical range in India is ₹30,000 to ₹2,00,000. The figure changes with the procedure, hospital, city, tests, implants and physiotherapy. Your surgeon will advise which option suits you. Ask us for an estimate.
Preparing for hand, foot and ankle surgery at Jaipur Hospital
Do
- Give a complete list of medicines
- Stop smoking if you smoke
- Follow fasting instructions
- Bring test reports and medicine list
- Arrange someone to take you home
At Jaipur Hospital, our surgical team will review your health before your hand, foot or ankle operation.
Tell your doctor about all your medical conditions, including:
- Diabetes
- High blood pressure
- Heart problems
- Allergies
Give a complete list of medicines, including herbs, supplements, vitamins and anything you buy without a prescription. Your surgeon will tell you if any medicine needs to be paused before surgery, including blood thinners.
Tests may include blood tests, an ECG and imaging such as X-rays. You may need a heart check if you have a heart condition. If you smoke, your doctor will usually advise you to stop before the operation because smoking delays healing.
You will be given fasting instructions before the day. For some operations, you may be asked not to eat or drink after midnight. Bring your test reports and a list of your medicines. Arrange for someone to take you home after discharge, because you may not be able to drive yourself.
Your surgeon will explain the operation, the anaesthetic, the risks and what to expect. You can ask questions. On the day, our team will check your details and place an intravenous line if you need fluids or medicines.
How hand, foot and ankle surgery is done
For hand, foot and ankle operations, you will usually have a regional block, spinal anaesthesia or general anaesthesia. The anaesthesia team will check your fitness and explain the anaesthetic. A regional block numbs the area and can give pain relief for some hours after surgery. With general anaesthesia you sleep through the operation.
Your surgeon will advise which operation suits your condition. The options include:
- Carpal tunnel release: the surgeon opens the carpal tunnel to take pressure off the median nerve. This can be done by an open cut or with an endoscope.
- Trigger finger release: the surgeon releases the A1 pulley so the finger can bend and straighten.
- Dupuytren's contracture release: the surgeon divides or removes tight tissue that pulls the finger into a bent position.
- Tendon or nerve repair: the surgeon repairs cut or damaged flexor tendons, extensor tendons or digital nerves.
- Bunion correction: the surgeon cuts and realigns the bone and balances the soft tissue around the big toe.
- Hammer toe correction: the surgeon releases a tendon or fuses a joint to straighten a lesser toe.
- Flat foot reconstruction: tendon transfer and bone cuts are used when orthotics and therapy have not helped.
- Heel pain surgery: plantar fascia release is an option only when stretching, orthotics and injections have not worked.
- Ankle fracture fixation: plates and screws hold the broken ankle bones in position.
- Ankle arthritis surgery: the ankle is fused or replaced when non-surgical care has not helped.
An operation takes about 30 minutes to 2 hours. You will usually go home the same day or stay up to 2 nights. Ankle fractures are preferably treated within the first day. If you have general anaesthesia, you will wake in the recovery area.
Risks and complications of hand, foot and ankle surgery
- 7.8% Bunion surgery recurrence
- 9.8% Bunion surgery stiffness
- 9.8% Ankle fusion wound problems
- 5.8% Ankle replacement aseptic loosening
All operations have risks. For carpal tunnel release, these include infection, a sensitive scar, bleeding, injury to small nerves or nearby blood vessels. Other medical conditions can add to the risk.
In studies of bunion surgery, the deformity came back in 7.8% of patients, stiffness of the big toe joint occurred in 9.8%, malunion in 4% to 8.7%, and infection in 1.9% to 14.3%. One review found an overall complication rate of 13%.
In studies of ankle fusion, wound problems occurred in 9.8%, nonunion in 7.9%, deep infection in 3.6% and fracture in 0.8%. In studies of ankle replacement, aseptic loosening occurred in 5.8%, wound problems in 5.4%, fracture in 4.9% and deep infection in 0.9%. Replacement had a higher risk of re-operation than fusion in one analysis.
Being in a cast and not putting weight on the leg raises the risk of a deep vein clot. A clot that travels to the lung can be fatal. A delay in surgery for an ankle fracture is linked to more wound infections. Your surgeon will discuss these risks with you before you sign consent.
Recovery after hand, foot and ankle surgery
After hand surgery, most people need 4 to 8 weeks to recover. After foot and ankle surgery, most people need 6 to 12 weeks. Your own timeline depends on the operation and your health. A hospital stay is usually day care to 2 nights.
After a trigger finger release, the hand may be sore and swollen for several days, and the finger may be hard to move at first. You may feel numbness or tingling near the cut. Stitches usually come out 1 to 2 weeks after the operation.
For 1 to 2 weeks, avoid using the hand, power tools, and activities that make the hand vibrate. Hand therapy may be needed.
Keep the hand raised above heart level and use ice packs to reduce swelling.
After foot or ankle surgery, keep the foot raised above the knee and use ice as advised. You may need crutches for several weeks and a boot or cast for at least four weeks. After an ankle fracture, do not put weight on the leg until your doctor says you can, usually at least 6 to 10 weeks after injury.
Physiotherapy often begins within the first two weeks after ankle replacement. Your doctor will tell you when you can drive and return to work. This depends on your job and which hand or foot was treated. Your attendant can help you keep the limb raised and get to follow-up visits.
Contact your surgeon if you have:
- A fever
- Increasing pain
- Swelling
- Warmth or redness
- Red streaks
- Pus from the wound
- Loose stitches
- A wound that opens
Contact your doctor if pain does not improve after pain medicine. Get emergency help for sudden chest pain, severe breathlessness, coughing blood, or fainting. Our 24×7 emergency department is available.
How well hand, foot and ankle surgery works
Studies show that open and endoscopic carpal tunnel release are equally effective. People who had endoscopic release returned to work about one week earlier on average. Recovery can take from a few weeks to many months. Sensory recovery is slow because nerves regrow at about one millimetre a day.
After trigger finger release, the finger may move more easily once it heals.
In studies of bunion surgery, both bone cut techniques improved the bunion angle, and results were similar after 2 years. At 14 years, neither technique was better at preventing the bunion from coming back. The deformity came back in 7.8% of patients in one review.
In one review, patients who had surgery for flat foot had significant improvements in symptoms and function.
For end-stage ankle arthritis, ankle replacement and ankle fusion are the main operations. In a meta-analysis, the two gave similar clinical results. Pain, function scores and satisfaction were not significantly different. Some studies found gait was better after replacement, but replacement had a higher risk of further operation. In one analysis, the adjusted revision operation rate was 7.9% after replacement and 5.4% after fusion.
Cost and insurance for hand, foot and ankle surgery in Jaipur
The typical range for hand, foot and ankle surgery in India is ₹30,000 to ₹2,00,000. Ask us for an estimate for your operation. The cost depends on the type of operation, the hospital, the surgeon's experience and the city. Minimally invasive techniques may cost more.
The price usually includes pre-surgery tests, surgery fees, anaesthesia, hospital stay and basic care after surgery. Physiotherapy, medicines and implants may cost extra.
Jaipur Hospital works with RGHS, MAA Yojana, CGHS, and a panel of private insurers and TPAs. Cover depends on your policy. For carpal tunnel release, most health insurance policies in India typically cover the surgery, but the extent depends on the individual policy.
