Foot and Ankle Specialist in Singapore:
Your Complete Guide to Conditions, Diagnosis, and Treatment

Foot and ankle pain affects people of all ages, from children developing their first arches to active adults managing sports injuries and older patients living with arthritis. When pain persists, limits movement, or affects your ability to work or exercise, an assessment by a foot and ankle specialist can help determine the underlying cause.

At ACME Orthopaedics, Dr Zackary Chua is a Senior Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon with fellowship training in both foot and ankle surgery and paediatric orthopaedics. This page explains what a foot and ankle specialist does, the conditions commonly managed within this subspecialty, and what to expect during the diagnosis and treatment process.

Understanding your condition and the available treatment options is an important part of making informed decisions about your care.

Dr Zackary Chua

Senior Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon (Adult & Paeds)

MBBS (Aus)MMed (SG)MRCS (Glasgow)FRCSEd (Orth)

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Foot Specialist in Singapore: Comprehensive Care for Your Foot and Ankle Health

Overview Conditions When to see a doctor Diagnosis Treatment Recovery Pediatric Consultation FAQ

What Is a Foot and Ankle Specialist?

A foot and ankle specialist is an orthopaedic surgeon who has completed fellowship training focused on conditions affecting the foot, ankle, and lower leg. This subspecialty covers the biomechanics of gait, the diagnosis of structural and soft-tissue conditions, and both non-surgical and surgical management.

Orthopaedic Surgeon versus Podiatrist in Singapore

In Singapore, orthopaedic surgeons are medical doctors who have completed medical school, postgraduate surgical training, and a specialist training programme accredited by the Singapore Medical Council (SMC). They are qualified to perform surgery, prescribe medications, and order investigations.

Podiatrists are allied health professionals trained in foot care, including nail and skin conditions, gait analysis, and orthotics management. They do not perform surgery.

For structural deformities, tendon injuries, fractures, arthritis, and any condition that may require surgery, an orthopaedic surgeon with foot and ankle subspecialty training is the relevant specialist.

Dr Zackary Chua — dual specialisation

Dr Chua has fellowship training in foot and ankle surgery and paediatric orthopaedics. He assesses and manages foot and ankle conditions in both adults and children.

Conditions We Treat

Foot and ankle orthopaedic care covers a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions. The following are among the most common assessed and managed at our clinics. Each condition has a dedicated page with detailed information on symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options.

Heel and arch conditions

Plantar fasciitis: Inflammation of the plantar fascia, the band of tissue that runs from the heel bone to the toes. It commonly causes sharp heel pain during the first steps in the morning or after periods of rest. It is one of the most common causes of heel pain and often affects runners, people who stand for prolonged periods, and those with flat feet or high arches in Singapore.
Heel spurs (calcaneal spurs): Bony outgrowths on the underside of the heel bone, often associated with plantar fasciitis. They are not always the direct source of pain.
Achilles tendinitis: Inflammation of the Achilles tendon, which connects the calf muscle to the heel bone. It commonly affects runners and people who have recently increased the intensity of their physical activity.
Posterior tibial tendon dysfunction (PTTD): Progressive damage to the tendon that supports the arch of the foot, which may lead to adult-acquired flat foot deformity if left unaddressed.
Insertional Achilles tendinopathy: Pain and thickening at the point where the Achilles tendon attaches to the heel bone. This differs from mid-portion Achilles tendinopathy.

Structural deformities

Bunions (hallux valgus): A bony prominence at the base of the big toe caused by the gradual deviation of the big toe toward the second toe. It may cause pain, difficulty wearing shoes, and secondary toe deformities. Surgery may be considered when appropriate conservative treatment has not provided adequate relief.
Flat feet (pes planus): Reduced or absent arch height affecting weight distribution. May be flexible (arch is present when non-weight-bearing) or rigid. They can cause pain, fatigue, and secondary knee or hip problems.
High arches (pes cavus): Excessively raised arches create instability, increase pressure on the ball of the foot, and raise the risk of ankle sprains.
Hammertoes: Abnormal bending of the middle joint of a toe, causing it to curl downward. It is often associated with pressure from footwear and may be flexible or rigid.
Claw toes: Bending of all three toe joints, often associated with neurological conditions or severe flat foot. They tend to be more rigid than hammertoes.

Sports and overuse injuries

Ankle sprains and ligament injuries: Stretching, partial or complete tearing of the lateral ankle ligaments, typically following a twisting injury. High ankle sprains (syndesmotic injuries) involve the ligaments above the ankle joint and generally require a longer recovery period.
Chronic ankle instability: Repeated ankle sprains leading to persistent ligament laxity and a sensation of the ankle giving way. Management typically begins with physiotherapy, while surgical reconstruction may be considered when appropriate conservative treatment has been inadequate.
Stress fractures: Hairline cracks caused by repetitive loading rather than a single trauma. Common in the metatarsals, navicular, and calcaneus. Frequently seen in runners, military personnel, and those who have recently increased training volume.
Morton’s neuroma: Thickening of the nerve tissue between the third and fourth toes, causing burning or sharp pain in the ball of the foot. Common in runners and those who wear narrow or high-heeled footwear.
Osteochondral lesions of the ankle (OCD/OCA): Damage to the cartilage and underlying bone on the talar dome, typically following ankle sprains or repetitive impact. May cause persistent deep ankle pain and swelling.

Arthritis of the foot and ankle

Osteoarthritis: Age- or wear-related degeneration of the joint cartilage in the ankle, subtalar joint, or toe joints. May cause stiffness, swelling, and pain during activity.
Post-traumatic arthritis: Arthritis developing in a previously injured joint, for example, following an ankle fracture or repeated severe sprains.
Inflammatory arthritis (e.g. rheumatoid arthritis): Systemic conditions affecting the synovial lining of joints throughout the foot and ankle, causing chronic pain, swelling, and deformity.

Paediatric foot and ankle conditions

Children’s feet differ from adult feet in anatomy, the presence of growth plates, and patterns of musculoskeletal conditions. Dr Chua’s fellowship training in paediatric orthopaedics includes the assessment and management of foot and ankle conditions affecting growing children.

Sever’s disease (calcaneal apophysitis): Stress affecting the growth plate at the heel, causing heel pain in active children aged eight to fourteen. It is one of the most common causes of heel pain in children and is typically managed without surgery.
Juvenile flat feet: Flat arches in children that persist beyond the expected developmental timeframe or cause symptoms. Most cases can be managed with physiotherapy and orthotics.
Juvenile hallux valgus (adolescent bunions): Bunion deformity that develops during adolescence. Management differs from that of adults because the growth plates are still open.
Tarsal coalition: Abnormal fusion of two or more bones in the foot, often causing a rigid flat foot and recurrent ankle sprains in adolescents.
Osteochondral lesions in young athletes: Injuries affecting the cartilage and underlying bone of the ankle joint in active young patients. Management is tailored to the individual’s age, skeletal maturity, and the severity of the injury.

Diabetic foot conditions

People living with diabetes are at significantly increased risk of foot complications due to peripheral neuropathy (nerve damage reducing sensation) and impaired circulation. Reduced pain sensitivity means that wounds, pressure sores, and infections can progress undetected. Early specialist assessment and a structured monitoring plan are particularly important for this patient group.

When Should You See a Foot and Ankle Specialist?

Not every foot ache requires specialist care, but certain signs may suggest a formal assessment is worthwhile. Early assessment can help identify the underlying cause of your symptoms and determine the most appropriate management plan.

A doctor examining a patient's ankle while seated in a clinical setting.

Consider booking a consultation if you notice any of the following:

Foot or ankle pain lasting more than two weeks that has not improved with rest or simple measures.
Burning, tingling, or numbness in the foot or toes.
Visible swelling, skin discolouration, or a change in foot or toe shape.
Difficulty walking normally, a noticeable limp, or a recurring sensation that your ankle is giving way.
Heel pain with your first steps each morning that takes more than a few minutes to ease.
A child who is consistently limping, reluctant to walk, or complaining of persistent foot pain.
Foot or ankle pain that returns despite previous treatment.

A close-up image of a man's ankle showing symptoms of pain as he holds it.

Seek prompt medical attention if you experience:

Inability to bear weight after a fall, twist, or impact injury.
Fever accompanied by redness, warmth, and swelling in the foot or ankle.
An open wound or foot ulcer that is not healing, particularly if you have diabetes or poor circulation.
Sudden severe pain in the heel or calf after physical activity, which may indicate an Achilles tendon rupture.
Rapid worsening of symptoms over hours, rather than days.

Clinical examination

Gait analysis: Observation of how you walk to identify abnormal movement patterns.
Palpation: Targeted pressure testing of specific anatomical points to identify tenderness.
Range-of-motion testing: Assessing joint movement and identifying restrictions.
Stability testing: Assessment of joint stability, particularly for ankle sprains and ligament injuries.
Neurological assessment: Assessment of sensation, muscle strength, and reflexes where appropriate.

Imaging investigations

X-rays: Assess bone alignment, joint space, the presence of heel spurs, and the severity of deformities (e.g., the hallux valgus angle in bunions). Weight-bearing X-rays are commonly performed where appropriate to assess the foot under normal loading.
MRI (magnetic resonance imaging): Provides detailed soft-tissue imaging, including tendons, ligaments, cartilage, and the plantar fascia. It may be used for tendon tears, osteochondral lesions, and cases where clinical examination alone does not provide sufficient information.
Ultrasound: Provides real-time imaging of tendons and other soft tissues. It may also be used to guide the placement of corticosteroid or other therapeutic injections.
CT scan: Used to assess complex bony anatomy, assists with surgical planning (e.g., coalition resection, ankle replacement sizing), and assessment of fracture healing.
Bone scan / SPECT-CT: Occasionally used for stress fractures not visible on X-rays or for diagnosing early arthritis.

Imaging results are typically reviewed together with your clinical findings.

Treatment Options

Treatment is tailored to the specific condition, its severity, your lifestyle, and your goals. Most foot and ankle conditions are managed with non-surgical treatment as the first approach. Surgery may be considered when conservative care has not provided sufficient improvement, or when the condition is severe enough that early surgical intervention is clinically appropriate.

Non-surgical treatment options

Physiotherapy and structured rehabilitation

A programme of strengthening and flexibility exercises targeting the foot, ankle, and lower leg. First-line management for plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendinopathy, ankle sprains, and post-operative recovery. Duration typically ranges from six to twelve weeks, depending on the condition.
Custom orthotic therapy

Individually prescribed shoe inserts designed to redistribute pressure across the foot, support the arch, and improve biomechanical loading. They may be recommended for conditions such as plantar fasciitis, flat feet, and overuse injuries. Unlike over-the-counter insoles, custom orthotics are made to fit your individual foot shape.
Oral anti-inflammatory medication (NSAIDs)

Used to help reduce pain and inflammation in acute and subacute conditions. Short-term courses are typically prescribed alongside rehabilitation rather than as a standalone treatment.
Corticosteroid injections

Used to help reduce localised inflammation. Commonly used for plantar fasciitis, Morton’s neuroma, and ankle joint arthritis. Effects are typically temporary; injection is usually part of a broader management plan.
Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT)

A non-invasive treatment that delivers acoustic waves to the affected tissue to stimulate healing. Used for chronic plantar fasciitis and insertional or mid-portion Achilles tendinopathy that has not responded to standard physiotherapy. Typically delivered over three to five sessions.
Activity modification and footwear advice

Practical changes to footwear (heel height, toe box width, arch support), activity type, and training load to help reduce stress on the foot and ankle.
Immobilisation (boot or splint)

Used for stress fractures, acute tendon injuries, and post-surgical recovery to protect healing structures.

Surgical treatment options

The following procedures are among those available at ACME Orthopaedics. The most appropriate approach depends on your specific condition, its severity, and whether non-surgical treatment has been considered. All surgical options are discussed in detail during your consultation.

Bunion correction (hallux valgus surgery)

Procedure	What it Involves	When Considered	Typical Recovery
Minimally invasive correction (MIS / SPEAR plate)	Keyhole incisions to reposition the metatarsal using an internal titanium plate.	Mild to moderate deformity; earlier intervention preferred.	Post-operative shoe 4–6 weeks; return to sport may be possible from around 3–4 months.
Scarf osteotomy	A Z-shaped cut in the metatarsal to shift it into correct alignment, secured with screws.	Moderate deformity.	Boot for approximately 6 weeks; return to sport 4–5 months.
Chevron osteotomy	A V-shaped cut at the metatarsal head to improve alignment, secured with a screw.	Mild to moderate deformity.	Boot for 4–6 weeks; return to sport may be possible around 3–4 months.
Lapidus procedure (Lisfranc fusion)	Fusion of the joint at the base of the first metatarsal to improve stability.	Severe or hypermobile deformity.	Non-weight-bearing 6 weeks; return to sport 5–6 months.

Plantar fascia release

Procedure	What it Involves	When Considered	Typical Recovery
Endoscopic plantar fascia release	A keyhole procedure that partially releases tension in the plantar fascia using a small camera and specialised instrument.	Chronic plantar fasciitis that has not improved after at least 6 months of conservative treatment.	Boot for around 2 weeks; return to sport may be possible around 2–3 months.
Open plantar fascia release	An open incision to partially release the plantar fascia through a small incision, typically used when an endoscopic approach is unsuitable.	Complex cases or when the endoscopic approach is not appropriate.	Boot for 3–4 weeks; return to sport in approximately 3 months.

Hammertoe Correction

Procedure	What it Involves	When Considered	Typical Recovery
Tendon transfer	Repositioning a flexor tendon to reduce the force causing the toe to curl.	Flexible hammertoe, where the toe can be straightened manually.	Surgical shoe for around 4–6 weeks; return to sport may be possible around 2–3 months.
Joint resection (arthroplasty)	Removing a small section of bone to allow the toe to straighten.	Flexible to semi-rigid deformity.	Surgical shoe for around 4–6 weeks; return to sport may be possible around 2–3 months.
Joint fusion (arthrodesis)	Permanently fusing the interphalangeal joint in a corrected, straightened position.	Rigid deformity, where the toe cannot be straightened manually.	Surgical shoe for around 6 weeks; return to sport in approximately 3 months.
MIS correction	Small incisions are used with fluoroscopic guidance to correct the deformity while aiming to reduce soft-tissue disruption.	Where a minimally invasive approach is clinically appropriate.	Surgical shoe for around 4–6 weeks; return to sport may be possible around 2–3 months.

Achilles tendon surgery

Procedure	What it Involves	When Considered
Achilles tendon repair	Surgical repair of a ruptured Achilles tendon using sutures to restore continuity.	Acute complete rupture, particularly in active individuals or those who prefer surgical over non-surgical management.
Achilles tendon debridement and reconstruction	Removal of damaged or degenerated tendon tissue, followed by repair or reconstruction where needed.	Chronic severe tendinopathy that has not improved with physiotherapy and injection therapy.

Ankle ligament reconstruction

Procedure	What it Involves	When Considered
Brostrom-Gould procedure	Tightening and reinforcing the stretched lateral ankle ligaments using the patient’s own tissue.	Chronic ankle instability following repeated ankle sprains that has not improved with physiotherapy and bracing.
Augmented ligament reconstruction	A Broström technique reinforced with a synthetic or tendon graft.	Where the native ligament tissue is insufficient to provide a stable repair.

Ankle arthritis surgery

Procedure	What it Involves	When Considered	Typical Recovery
Ankle arthroscopic debridement	A keyhole procedure to remove loose bodies, smooth damaged joint surfaces, and treat impingement.	Early-stage ankle arthritis or impingement where symptoms have not improved with conservative care.	Crutches for around 1–2 weeks; return to sport may be possible around 2–3 months.
Ankle arthrodesis (fusion)	Fusing the tibial and talar bones to eliminate painful joint movement while preserving the surrounding joints.	Advanced ankle arthritis, particularly in active individuals or when total ankle replacement is not suitable.	Non-weight-bearing for 6–8 weeks; return to low-impact activity in approximately 6 months.
Total ankle replacement (TAR)	Replacing the damaged ankle joint surfaces with metal and polyethene components to preserve movement.	Selected patients with advanced ankle arthritis, typically older, lower-demand individuals.	Boot for around 6 weeks; walking by approximately 3 months; return to low-impact sport at around 6 months.

Cartilage repair procedures (osteochondral lesions)

Procedure	What it Involves	When Considered	Typical Recovery
Microfracture	Small holes are made in the bone beneath the cartilage defect to stimulate healing from bone marrow.	Smaller cartilage defects (less than 1.5 cm²), particularly in younger or moderately active patients.	Non-weight-bearing for around 6 weeks; return to sport in approximately 4–6 months.
OATS (Osteochondral Autograft Transfer System)	Transferring a plug of healthy cartilage and underlying bone from a non-load-bearing area of the knee or ankle to the cartilage defect.	Localised lesions, particularly in active patients seeking a more durable repair.	Non-weight-bearing for around 6–8 weeks; gradual return to sport in 6–9 months.
ACI (Autologous Chondrocyte Implantation)	Patient’s own cartilage cells are harvested, grown in a laboratory, and reimplanted into the defect. This is a two-stage procedure.	Larger defects (greater than 1.5 cm²), particularly in younger patients or those with failed previous cartilage repair.	Non-weight-bearing for around 8–10 weeks; gradual return to sport in 9–12 months.

Recovery and What to Expect

The following recovery timelines are provided as general guidance. Individual recovery varies depending on the procedure performed, your overall health, your adherence to rehabilitation, and progress during recovery. Your orthopaedic surgeon will provide personalised recovery guidance at your consultation and at each follow-up appointment.

Non-surgical treatment recovery

Weeks 1 to 2: Rest, ice application, elevation where appropriate, and activity modification. Prescribed stretching exercises may begin, depending on the condition.
Weeks 3 to 6: Physiotherapy may begin or increase in intensity (typically once or twice per week). Custom orthotics may be prescribed where appropriate. Gradual return to walking or other low-impact activities.
Months 2 to 3: Many patients with plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendinopathy, or ankle sprains notice an improvement in their symptoms. Patients undergoing shockwave therapy may also begin to experience symptom relief during this period.
Return to full activity: Return to higher-impact exercise and sport is guided by symptom improvement and your recovery progress. For many patients, this is gradual and may begin after around 3 months, although timelines vary depending on the condition and individual recovery.

Recovery after bunion surgery

Week 1 to 2: Keep the foot elevated as much as possible. Wear a post-operative shoe or boot whenever weight-bearing. Attend dressing care and wound review appointments as advised.
Weeks 3 to 6: Gradually increase walking while continuing to wear the post-operative shoe. Gentle physiotherapy exercises may begin, depending on your recovery.
Months 2 to 3: Transition to wider, comfortable footwear as advised. Swelling continues to improve, and walking generally becomes more comfortable.
Return to sport: Return to sport is typically around 3 to 4 months after minimally invasive bunion correction and 4 to 6 months after open surgery, depending on your recovery. Wearing narrow dress shoes may not be comfortable until around 6 months after surgery.

Recovery after ankle arthritis surgery

Week 1 to 2: Non-weight-bearing using crutches or a walking boot. Wounds are dressed, and dressing changes are as advised. For ankle replacement, physiotherapy begins within the first 2 weeks.
Weeks 3 to 6: Protected weight-bearing may begin. Physiotherapy progresses gradually. Swelling may continue for several months.
Months 2 to 3: Graduated rehabilitation continues. Improved mobility and pain relief are typically noted.
Return to activity: Low-impact activity, such as walking, cycling, swimming, is typically around 6 months for both fusion and total ankle replacement. High-impact sport is generally not recommended after ankle fusion.

Recovery after cartilage repair

Weeks 1 to 6: Non-weight-bearing on crutches. Keep the foot elevated to manage swelling. Gentle range-of-motion exercises may begin.
Weeks 6 to 12: Gradual progression to protected weight-bearing. Physiotherapy increases in intensity, and pool-based rehabilitation may begin where appropriate.
Months 3 to 6: Strengthening and proprioception training, with a gradual return to everyday activities.
Return to sport: A gradual return to sport is typically around 4 to 6 months after microfracture, 6 to 9 months after OATS, and 9 to 12 months after ACI. These timelines reflect the time required for cartilage healing and rehabilitation.

Recovery disclaimer: Recovery timelines are provided as general guidance only. Individual recovery depends on the procedure performed, your overall health, age, adherence to rehabilitation, and clinical response. Your orthopaedic surgeon will provide personalised guidance based on your specific situation at each stage of your care.

Paediatric Foot and Ankle Conditions

Children’s feet are structurally different from adult feet. Growth plates are present and active, arch development continues through childhood, and several conditions are specific to growing patients. Managing these conditions requires understanding how the growing anatomy affects both the condition and the treatment approach.

Dr Zackary Chua’s dual training in foot and ankle surgery and paediatric orthopaedics enables him to assess and manage a range of foot and ankle conditions affecting children and adolescents. This includes considering skeletal growth when planning treatment, counselling both parents and young patients, and selecting treatment approaches that are appropriate for growing bone and soft tissues.

Common paediatric presentations

Sever’s disease: Heel pain in active children aged eight to fourteen, caused by stress at the heel bone growth plate. Typically managed with rest, physiotherapy, heel padding, and activity modification. Most cases resolve as the child grows.
Juvenile flat feet: Flat arches that persist beyond five to six years of age and cause pain or functional difficulty. Flexible flat feet in children without pain are generally observed rather than treated. Painful or rigid flat feet may benefit from orthotics or, in selective cases, surgery.
Adolescent bunions (juvenile hallux valgus): Bunion deformity presenting in teenagers. The surgical approach differs from that in adult bunion surgery because the growth plate must be taken into account. Treatment timing and technique depend on the patient’s stage of skeletal maturity.
Tarsal coalition: Abnormal bony or fibrous connection between two or more foot bones, often presenting as a rigid flat foot, recurrent ankle sprains, and activity-related pain in adolescents. Diagnosis is typically confirmed with imaging, such as a CT scan.
Idiopathic toe-walking: Children who continue to walk on their toes beyond the age of three may benefit from assessment to rule out underlying neurological conditions and guide management.

If your child is limping, reluctant to walk, or has persistent foot or ankle pain, an orthopaedic assessment can help clarify the cause and determine whether treatment is needed.

What Happens at Your First Consultation?

Many patients are unsure of what a specialist appointment involves. The following outlines the structure of a typical first visit at ACME Orthopaedics.

Registration

Our clinic staff will assist you with registration and insurance documentation. If you have a referral letter, Medisave card, or prior imaging, please bring them along.
Specialist consultation

Dr Chua will take a detailed history of your symptoms, discuss your activity levels and occupational demands, and review any previous investigations or treatments. A physical examination of the affected foot and ankle follows.
Diagnosis of your condition

Imaging such as X-rays or an MRI may be arranged. In many cases, weight-bearing X-rays can be taken on the same day. If an MRI is required, this is typically arranged for a subsequent appointment.
Individualised treatment plan

Dr Chua will review all findings with you and outline the available management options, explaining the rationale for each. Treatment decisions are made together with you, taking into account your condition, lifestyle, and preferences.
Follow-up

Your recovery and progress will be monitored through scheduled follow-up appointments. If your condition changes or new symptoms arise between appointments, you can contact our clinic team for advice.

Ready to Discuss Your Condition?

Whether you’re experiencing ongoing pain or have questions about your treatment options, our team is available through our 24/7 hotline to assist you.

Book Appointment

Frequently Asked Questions

When should I see a foot and ankle specialist instead of a GP?

If your foot or ankle pain has lasted more than two weeks despite rest, is interfering with walking or daily activities, or is accompanied by numbness, visible deformity, persistent swelling that is not settling, or a sense of instability, it may be appropriate to see an orthopaedic specialist. Your GP may refer you, or you can book a specialist appointment directly.

What is the difference between a podiatrist and an orthopaedic surgeon in Singapore?

Orthopaedic surgeons are medical doctors who have completed medical school, postgraduate surgical training, and specialist registration with the Singapore Medical Council (SMC) and have been accredited by the Specialists Accreditation Board (SAB). They are qualified to perform surgery and prescribe medications.

Podiatrists are allied health professionals who assess and manage a range of foot and lower limb conditions using non-invasive approaches, including gait assessment, orthotics, wound care, and minor nail and skin procedures. They are not trained to perform bone or joint surgery in Singapore.

For structural conditions, tendon injuries, fractures, or problems that may require surgical intervention, an orthopaedic surgeon with subspecialty training in foot and ankle surgery is the appropriate specialist.

Does my condition necessarily require surgery?

The majority of foot and ankle conditions are managed successfully without surgery. Depending on the condition, treatment may include physiotherapy, orthotics, medication, shockwave therapy, or injection therapy. Surgery is generally considered when an appropriate course of conservative treatment has not provided sufficient improvement, or when the condition is severe enough that early surgical intervention is clinically appropriate. All available options will be discussed with you during your consultation.

Can Medisave be used for foot and ankle treatment?

Many foot and ankle surgical procedures may be eligible for MediSave claims, subject to MOH MediSave guidelines, the approved procedure performed, and the patient’s available MediSave balance.

For outpatient treatment, MediSave usage is more limited. It may be used for selected chronic disease management, certain outpatient scans, and for patients aged 60 years and above under the Flexi-MediSave scheme, subject to prevailing MOH guidelines.

In general, MediSave does not cover private specialist consultation fees, and many non-surgical outpatient treatments (such as shockwave therapy) are not claimable.

How long does recovery take after foot surgery?

Recovery depends on the specific procedure. After minimally invasive bunion correction, most patients return to comfortable footwear within 6 to 8 weeks and to sports after around 3 to 4 months. Recovery after procedures such as ankle fusion or cartilage repair may take 6 months or longer. Recovery timelines for common procedures are outlined in the Recovery section of this page. Our orthopaedic surgeon will provide a personalised recovery plan during your consultation.

Do you treat children with foot and ankle problems?

Yes. Dr Zackary Chua has dual subspecialty training in foot and ankle surgery and paediatric orthopaedics. Children and adolescents with conditions including Sever’s disease, juvenile flat feet, adolescent bunions, tarsal coalition, and sports-related cartilage injuries are seen at our clinics. Treatment plans are tailored to the child’s stage of growth and skeletal development.

What is plantar fasciitis, and how is it treated?

Plantar fasciitis is a condition affecting the plantar fascia, the thick band of tissue that runs along the sole of the foot from the heel to the toes. It typically causes sharp heel pain with the first steps in the morning or after prolonged periods of rest. Most cases can be managed by physiotherapy, custom orthotics, and activity modification within three to six months. For cases that do not improve, extracorporeal shockwave therapy or, in selected cases, a minimally invasive plantar fascia release procedure may be considered.

What causes a bunion, and when is surgery needed?

A bunion (hallux valgus) develops when the big toe gradually angles toward the second toe, creating a bony prominence at the joint base. Contributing factors include foot structure, footwear, and in some cases, family history. Not all bunions require surgery. Mild bunions causing minimal discomfort can often be managed with footwear modifications and orthotics. Surgery is considered when conservative measures fail to adequately control pain or when the deformity is affecting toe function.

Is minimally invasive (keyhole) surgery always possible?

Minimally invasive techniques are available for several foot and ankle procedures, including bunion correction, hammertoe correction, and plantar fascia release. Whether a minimally invasive approach is appropriate depends on the specific condition, its severity, and your foot anatomy. Our orthopaedic surgeon will discuss the most suitable treatment approach during your consultation.

What should I bring to my first appointment?

Please bring any previous imaging (X-rays, MRI or CT scans), referral letters from your GP or previous specialists, a list of current medications, and your identification and insurance documents. Wear or bring footwear that allows easy examination of the foot and ankle. If you have worn orthotics previously, bring these along as well.

Are there any risks associated with foot and ankle surgery?

All surgical procedures carry general risks including infection, bleeding, anaesthetic reaction, and deep vein thrombosis. The specific risks vary depending on the procedure and your individual circumstances and will be explained during the consent process. Our orthopaedic surgeon will discuss the specific risks and alternative treatment options relevant to your condition.

How do I make an appointment?

You can book by calling +65 6956 6588, sending a WhatsApp message to +65 8877 3318, or emailing [email protected]. We are open Monday to Friday from 9.00 am to 5.00 pm and Saturday from 9.00 am to 12.30 pm. The Parkway East clinic operates by appointment only.

Why Patients Choose ACME Orthopaedics for Foot and Ankle Care

Dual subspecialty training in adult and paediatric foot and ankle surgery

Adults and children with foot and ankle conditions are seen by the same surgeon who has specific fellowship training in both areas. Parents do not need to seek a separate specialist for their child.
Fellowship-trained orthopaedic surgeon (FRCSEd, Orth)

Additional post-specialist training provides depth of experience in managing complex and surgical foot and ankle cases beyond general orthopaedics.
Full range of surgical and non-surgical options

Treatment recommendations are based on your condition, clinical assessment, and preferences. Both non-surgical and surgical treatment options are discussed where appropriate.
Named, verifiable surgeon with published credentials

Dr Chua’s qualifications, recognitions, and institutional affiliations are verifiable. E-E-A-T-transparent: no anonymous or ambiguous authorship of clinical content.
Two accessible clinic locations in Singapore

Mount Elizabeth Novena Specialist Centre and Parkway East Medical Centre offer patients a choice across different parts of the island.
Broad insurance and Medisave coverage

Major ISPs and corporate insurers panels are accepted. Our clinic team can assist with pre-authorisation and explain your insurance and MediSave eligibility before your procedure.
Structured, continuous care

From diagnosis through rehabilitation and follow-up, the same specialist oversees your care, ensuring continuity at every stage.
Active in research and professional development

Dr Chua contributes to mentoring, research supervision, and professional forums locally and internationally.

Take the First Step Toward Feeling Better

Arrange a consultation with our foot and ankle specialist. A timely assessment can guide the right management approach for your condition.

Book Your Appointment

Dr Zackary Chua (蔡克祥医生)

Senior Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon (Adult & Paeds)

MBBS (AUS)|MMed (Singapore)|MRCS (Glasgow)|FRCSEd (Orth)

A senior consultant orthopaedic surgeon with dual specialisations in Foot & Ankle Surgery and Paediatric Orthopaedics. Backed by his extensive years of training and experience, Dr Chua brings the necessary knowledge and skills to ensure a smooth recovery journey.

Rooted firmly by two fundamental philosophies: “When one’s feet hurt, one hurts all over” and “Children are not little adults”, Dr Chua’s approach to patient care reflects his compassionate care for adults and children.

Singhealth Quality Excellence Award – Silver (2011)
Service From the Heart Award (2021)
Singapore Health Quality Service Award – Gold (2023)
NUS Medicine Dean’s Award for Teaching Excellence (2023)

His active participation in the medical community extends to mentoring, research supervision, and contributions to key professional forums and symposiums, both locally and internationally.