Foot and Ankle Specialist in Singapore

Dr Kau is a Fellowship trained Orthopaedic Surgeon with more than 15 years of experience. He is experienced in trauma and fracture management, sports injuries, and joint replacement surgery. For patients suffering from foot and ankle conditions, Dr Kau offers conservative measures such as casting, walker boot or shoewear modifications, injections and as a last resort — surgical treatments including fixation and stabilisation. Make an appointment with Dr Kau for a consultation and a personalised foot and ankle treatment plan.

doctor img
Dr Kau Chung Yuan (许医生)

MBBS (S’PORE)

MRCS (Ireland)

MMed (Ortho)

FRCSEd (Ortho)

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The Role of a Foot & Ankle Specialist

Foot and ankle specialists play a crucial role in diagnosing, treating, and managing various conditions affecting the foot, ankle, and lower leg regions. They work closely with patients of all ages, from addressing common foot problems in children and adults to managing complex injuries and chronic conditions in athletes and the elderly.

Foot and ankle specialists also play a pivotal role in preventive care, educating patients on maintaining foot health, avoiding injuries, and providing guidance on proper footwear.

Foot and Ankle

The foot and ankle are vital parts of the human body, supporting our weight, enabling movement, and providing stability. Comprising numerous bones, joints, ligaments, and muscles, these structures allow us to walk, run, jump, and perform various activities.

For specialised foot and ankle care, Dr Kau offers a range of services to help diagnose, treat, and restore optimal function to your foot and ankle.

Common Conditions

Foot and ankle specialists are adept at diagnosing and managing various conditions that can affect individuals of any age. These are some of the most prevalent conditions:

  • Plantar Fasciitis
    This condition is characterised by plantar fascia inflammation, a thick band of tissue running across the bottom of the foot and connecting the heel bone to the toes.
    Plantar fasciitis is a common cause of heel pain, especially among runners and individuals who are overweight or wear shoes with inadequate support.
  • Achilles Tendinitis
    Achilles tendinitis involves inflammation of the Achilles tendon, the large tendon that connects the calf muscles to the heel. It is often the result of repetitive stress to the tendon, leading to pain and swelling near the heel. Active individuals and athletes frequently encounter this condition.
  • Ankle Sprains and Fractures
    Ankle sprains occur when the ligaments that support the ankle stretch beyond their limits and tear. Ankle fractures involve a break in one or more ankle joint bones.
    Both injuries result from trauma, such as twisting the ankle or falling, and they are among the most common injuries treated by foot and ankle specialists.
  • Bunions
    Bunions are bony bumps on the joint at the base of the big toe, causing the big toe to deviate towards the other toes. It can result from wearing tight, narrow shoes or may be hereditary.
  • Arthritis
    Arthritis can affect one or multiple joints in the feet and ankles, leading to pain, stiffness, and swelling. Osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis are the most common forms affecting these areas. Treatment focuses on managing symptoms and maintaining joint function.

Diagnostic Techniques Used in Foot & Ankle Care

Accurate diagnosis is crucial in effectively managing and treating foot and ankle conditions. Here are some of the primary diagnostic techniques used:

Clinical Examination:
The initial step in diagnosing foot and ankle conditions involves a thorough clinical examination. Specialists assess the foot and ankle’s physical condition, including the skin, alignment, structure, and the presence of any deformities.

Radiography (X-rays):
X-rays are a fundamental imaging technique used to visualise the foot and ankle bones. They help in diagnosing fractures, dislocations, and signs of arthritis. X-rays can also reveal changes in the alignment of bones that may indicate the presence of conditions such as bunions.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI):
MRI scans provide detailed images of the foot and ankle’s soft tissues, including muscles, ligaments, and tendons. This imaging technique is useful in diagnosing soft tissue injuries, such as ligament tears, tendonitis, and muscle strains, as well as assessing the severity of such injuries.

Computed Tomography (CT) Scan:
CT scans offer cross-sectional images of the foot and ankle, providing more detailed information than standard X-rays. They are useful in evaluating complex fractures and in planning surgical procedures.

Ultrasound:
Ultrasound imaging is used to visualise soft tissue structures in real-time. It is beneficial in diagnosing conditions such as plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendinitis, and soft tissue masses.

Foot and Ankle Conditions We Treat

Non-Surgical Treatment Options

Specialists often recommend non-surgical options as the first line of therapy for various conditions. These treatments aim to relieve pain, reduce inflammation, and improve mobility without the need for invasive procedures.

Physical Therapy

Physical therapy involves a range of exercises and techniques designed to strengthen the muscles around the foot and ankle, improve flexibility, and increase range of motion.

Orthotic Devices

Custom orthotic devices, such as insoles or braces, can provide support and alleviate pain by correcting abnormal foot and ankle alignment.

Medications

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can help reduce pain and inflammation associated with various foot and ankle conditions. In some cases, corticosteroid injections may be used to provide more significant relief from inflammation.

Surgical Treatment Options

Surgical interventions are considered when conservative treatments fail to provide relief or when the nature of the condition necessitates a more direct approach.

  • Ankle Arthroscopy
    Ankle arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure with tiny cameras and instruments inserted into the joint through small incisions. This enables the surgeon to remove loose fragments, address cartilage damage, and treat infections or scarring within the joint.
  • Ankle Ligament Stabilisation
    This procedure is performed to repair or reinforce the ligaments around the ankle that have been stretched or torn. Ankle ligament stabilisation helps restore ankle stability, preventing future sprains and reducing the risk of chronic ankle instability.
  • Ankle Fracture Fixation
    Ankle fracture fixation involves the surgical realignment of broken bones in the ankle and holding them together with hardware such as screws, plates, nails, or pins. This procedure aims to restore the normal anatomy of the ankle, ensuring proper healing and function.
  • Achilles Tendon Repair
    Achilles tendon repair surgery is performed to treat a ruptured Achilles tendon. The procedure involves stitching the torn tendon fibres back together to allow them to heal properly. This surgery aims to restore the normal function of the tendon, enabling patients to return to their regular activities and sports.
  • Bunion Correction Surgery
    Bunion correction surgery addresses the big toe joint’s misalignment, resulting in a bony protrusion on the side of the foot. The surgery may involve realigning the bone, correcting the toe position, and removing the bony bump, thereby relieving pain and improving foot function.
  • Metatarsal Fracture Fixation
    Metatarsal fracture fixation involves surgically treating broken bones in the metatarsus, the part of the foot between the ankle and toes. It typically uses pins, screws, or plates to secure the bones in the correct position, allowing them to heal properly and restore foot function.
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Foot and Ankle Treatments We Offer

  • Ankle Arthroscopy
  • Ankle Ligament Stabilisation
  • Ankle Fracture Fixation
  • Ankle Syndesmotic Repair
  • Achilles Tendon Repair
  • Bunion Correction Surgery
  • Injections Around the Foot and Ankle
  • Metatarsal Fracture Fixation

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Consult our MOH-accredited orthopaedic specialist for an accurate diagnosis & personalised treatment plan today.

When To See A Foot And Ankle Specialist

  • Persistent Foot or Ankle Pain
    If you experience ongoing foot or ankle pain that does not improve with rest, over-the-counter remedies, or basic self-care measures, it may be time to consult a foot and ankle specialist.
  • Limited Mobility or Function
    If you have difficulty walking, bearing weight on your foot or ankle, or performing regular activities due to reduced mobility or function, it is advisable to seek the expertise of a foot and ankle specialist.
  • Foot and Ankle Injuries
    If you have suffered a foot or ankle injury, such as a fracture, sprain, or ligament tear, it is important to see a foot and ankle specialist for proper evaluation and management.
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Dr. Kau Chung Yuan

MBBS (S’pore)

MRCS (Ireland)

MMed (Ortho)

FRCSEd (Ortho)

Dr Kau (许医生) is a Fellowship trained Orthopaedic Surgeon with a subspecialty interest in Hip and Knee surgery and has been in practice for more than 15 years.

He is experienced in trauma and fracture management, sports injuries, and joint replacement surgery.

  • Fellow of the Royal College of Surgeons Edinburgh, Orthopaedics (FRCS, Edin) 2014
  • Master of Medicine (Orthopaedics), Singapore (MMed) 2013
  • Member of the Royal College of Surgeons Ireland (MRCS, Ire) 2009
  • Bachelor of Medicine and Surgery (MBBS, Singapore) 2004

Patient Journey with Dr Kau

Consultation

During the initial consultation, Dr Kau will evaluate your medical history, assess your condition and advise you on the next course of action.

Investigation

After consultation, Dr Kau will decide which tests are needed. Most conditions will benefit from an X-ray and MRI of the affected region to aid in your diagnosis.

Treatment

After diagnosis, Dr Kau will recommend a personalised non-invasive or surgical treatment plan, depending on your condition.

Partnered Programs & Insurance Plans

For Singaporeans, Singapore Permanent Residents and Foreigners.
Please speak to our friendly clinic staff about using your insurance plans.

Patient Feedback

Ethan Chan
Dr. Kau is an exemplary doctor who is experienced in his field and is very patient with his patients. He walked me through the details of my knee condition and addressed all my concerns. Thanks to Dr. Kau, I had a better understanding of my ACL and MCL injury and the various treatment options available. His advice and treatment have been very valuable to me.
Ming Lee Chua
Dr Kau was very careful and explained clearly the surgery procedures. After surgery, the care while I was in hospital was closely monitored and he even came during weekends! The hip so far has recovered and healed. His ‘predictions’ of when what can happen are so accurate. Trust him.
Teo Pek Suan Diana
I had a very successful total hip replacement done by Dr Kau 4 years ago. 4 months after the operation I was back walking, cycling and swimming. The beautiful job gave me much confidence Dr Kau is most professional and has such great doctor patient communication.

Send Us An Enquiry

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    Visit Us Today

    1
    Mount Elizabeth Novena
    Specialist Centre
    2
    Mount Alvernia
    Hospital
    3
    Farrer Park
    Hospital
    38 Irrawaddy Road,
    #06-59/60/61,
    Singapore 329563
    1, #02-01 Farrer Park Station Rd,
    Connexion, Singapore 217562

    Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

    How do you relieve foot and ankle pain?

    To relieve foot and ankle pain, rest the affected area, apply ice packs, elevate the foot, take over-the-counter pain medication, wear supportive footwear, do gentle exercises, and seek professional guidance if needed.

    Can I continue my regular activities or exercise routines if I have foot and ankle pain?

    The ability to continue regular activities or exercise routines with foot and ankle pain depends on the specific condition. It is best to consult with an orthopaedic doctor for guidance on modifying activities, recommended exercises, and alternatives to minimise further discomfort or damage.

    What is the recovery period after a foot and ankle surgery?

    The recovery period after foot and ankle surgery varies but typically ranges from several weeks to several months. Complete recovery and return to normal activities may take several months or longer. Following post-operative instructions and participating in recommended rehabilitation are important for optimal recovery.

    Can foot and ankle specialists treat sports injuries?

    Yes, foot and ankle specialists are skilled in treating sports-related injuries, ranging from acute injuries like sprains and fractures to chronic conditions such as tendinitis and stress fractures.

    Can children see a foot and ankle specialist?

    Children should see a foot and ankle specialist for any concerns regarding foot or ankle pain, deformities, or abnormalities in walking patterns. Early intervention can address many paediatric foot conditions effectively.

    How can I prevent foot and ankle injuries?

    Preventing foot and ankle injuries involves wearing appropriate footwear, maintaining a healthy weight and performing exercises to strengthen the feet and ankles. Additionally, warming up before physical activity and using the correct techniques can help reduce injury risk.