Many common foot ailments require surgery. However, there are also many conditions for which conservative care may be effective.

Even for conditions which are often approached surgically, conservative measures may be attempted first, especially on patients for whom surgery would present a risk, or whose work or life schedules may not allow for adequate post-operative healing time.

Taping, padding, strapping techniques, injections, and the manipulation of foot pressures and biomechanics via the use of orthotics (customized shoe inserts), are all within the realm of conservative care.

Physical therapy, acupuncture, and taking supplements (for certain conditions) may also apply. Lastly, for problems which may be of a chronic nature, patients may decide upon whether or not to continue conservative care or proceed to surgical management.

Conservative care measures are always presented first.