The foot and its related anatomical structures are specialized for weight-bearing and support, balance, shock absorption, and propulsion and direction. The foot has very complex bony, ligamentous, and musculotendinous units that enable it to function both as a flexible structure that conforms to uneven surfaces and as a fairly rigid and strong platform able to provide push-off and spring during various activities. During ambulation, the foot may have to support repetitive loads equal to eight times body weight.

Except in fracture care, surgery of the foot and ankle is often considered as a last option when more conservative measures fail to alleviate symptoms. Surgeries of the foot and ankle include bunion surgery and lesser toe surgery, deformity correction, fracture fixation, arthrodesis (fusion of joint spaces) for inflammatory processes, and surgical reconstruction that involves invasive manipulation of musculoskeletal structures to treat deformities. After foot surgery, it is important to allow enough time for bony and soft tissue healing in order to attain normal function. Orthotics, physical therapy, NSAIDs, and a change of shoes are useful modalities that complement surgical intervention, and in most cases will be required for optimal recovery.