The former can be corrected by soft tissue or tendon surgery, while the latter may require removal of a small segment of bone. Plantar warts which are caused by a virus, can be removed in a doctor's office, using various relatively simple surgical procedures, and the patient probably will be able to walk immediately following the process. However, warts can occur in multiples and clusters, and may require that more than one visit be paid to a podiatrist. They can also recur, like other viral infections. They can be removed in surgery in the office or clinic, and a patient is ordinarily able to walk immediately after the procedure, although the podiatrist will change the dressings and monitor recovery during return visits.
Ganglions are fluid-filled sacs that appear in various spots on the top or side of the foot.
Heel spurs occur as a bony growth on the front part of the bottom surface of the weight-bearing part of the heel bone, where a long band of tissue called the plantar fascia, which runs to the forefoot, is attached. Spurs may be caused by injury or other foot stress. The band of tissue can be released, and the spur surgically removed, possibly in a well-equipped clinic or in a hospital outpatient setting, although a hospital stay will likely be necessary. Recovery will most likely require immobilization of the foot, and use of crutches or another ambulatory aid for about two weeks. However, a growing number of insurance carriers require that a second opinion be obtained before such surgery is undertaken.