Foot and Ankle Specialist
in Singapore
Our Team of Foot and Ankle Orthopaedic Surgeons
At HC Orthopaedic Surgery, our team of specialist foot and ankle surgeons bring more than 50 years of combined clinical experience and advanced expertise in diagnosing and treating a wide range of foot and ankle conditions. With a patient-centred approach and modern orthopaedic techniques, we focus on helping patients ease pain, regain mobility and return confidently to their daily activities.
Specialist Orthopaedic Surgeons for Foot and Ankle Pain and Injuries
Advanced Foot and Ankle Reconstruction and Arthroscopic Surgery
Minimally Invasive Techniques to Support Faster, Safer Recovery
Dr Henry Chan
Medical Director & Senior Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon
Qualifications:
MBBS (S’pore), MRCS (Edinburgh), MMed (Orthopaedic Surgery), FRCS (Edinburgh)
Dr Nicholas Yeoh
Senior Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon
Qualifications:
MBChB (Edinburgh), MRCS (Edinburgh), MMed (Orthopaedic Surgery), FRCS (Edinburgh)
Dr Toon Dong Hao
Senior Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon
Qualifications:
MBChB (Leeds), MRCS (Edinburgh), MMed (Orthopaedic Surgery), FRCS (Edinburgh)
Dr Tang Zhi Hao
Senior Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon
Qualifications:
MBBS (S’pore), MRCS (Edinburgh), MMed (Orthopaedic Surgery), FRCS (Edinburgh)
Understanding the Condition
What Is Foot and Ankle Pain?
Foot and ankle pain refers to discomfort arising from the foot or ankle joints, or the surrounding muscles, tendons and ligaments that support movement and stability. It can develop after a sudden injury such as a sprain or fracture, repeated strain from sports or prolonged standing, or gradual wear-and-tear conditions such as tendon degeneration or arthritis. People with foot and ankle pain may notice aching, sharp pain when walking, swelling, stiffness or reduced ability to bear weight. These symptoms can interfere with daily activities such as standing, walking, exercising or climbing stairs. Treatment depends on the underlying cause and may include activity modification, physiotherapy, medication or targeted surgical care to restore function and relieve pain.
Why It Happens
Understanding the Causes of Foot and Ankle Pain
Foot and ankle pain can arise from injuries, overuse, inflammation, or gradual wear and tear affecting the bones, joints, tendons, ligaments, and soft tissues that support movement and stability. Because the foot and ankle bear body weight with every step, they are particularly vulnerable to strain, repetitive stress, and traumatic injuries.
Ankle Sprain
An ankle sprain occurs when the ligaments that stabilise the ankle are stretched or torn, usually after the foot twists or rolls unexpectedly. This commonly happens during sports, uneven walking surfaces, or sudden changes in direction. Symptoms may include pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty bearing weight on the affected ankle.
Ankle Fracture
An ankle fracture refers to a break in one or more of the bones that form the ankle joint. It often results from falls, sports injuries, or accidents that place excessive force on the joint. People with an ankle fracture may experience severe pain, swelling, bruising, and an inability to stand or walk.
Achilles Tendon Injuries
The Achilles tendon connects the calf muscles to the heel bone and plays an important role in walking, running, and jumping. Injuries may occur due to sudden strain, overuse, or degeneration over time. Symptoms can include pain or stiffness at the back of the ankle, swelling, and difficulty pushing off the foot while walking.
Plantar Fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain. It occurs when the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue along the bottom of the foot, becomes irritated or inflamed. People often experience sharp pain near the heel, especially during the first steps in the morning or after long periods of rest.
Bunions
A bunion is a bony prominence that develops at the base of the big toe when the joint becomes misaligned. This condition can cause pain, swelling, and redness around the affected joint. Over time, bunions may make it difficult to wear certain shoes or walk comfortably.
Flat Feet
Flat feet occur when the arches of the feet collapse or fail to develop fully, causing the entire sole of the foot to make contact with the ground. Some people may not experience symptoms, while others may develop foot fatigue, arch pain, or ankle discomfort, especially after prolonged standing or walking.
Ankle Arthritis
Ankle arthritis develops when the cartilage that cushions the ankle joint gradually wears down. This can lead to pain, swelling, stiffness, and reduced joint mobility. The condition may occur with ageing, after previous injuries, or due to inflammatory joint diseases.
Symptoms of Foot and Ankle Injuries and When to See a Foot and Ankle Specialist
Foot and ankle pain can present with a range of symptoms depending on the underlying condition and the structures involved. While some mild discomfort may improve with rest, persistent or worsening symptoms may indicate a more significant injury or joint condition that requires medical assessment.
Common symptoms of foot and ankle problems include:
- Pain when standing, walking, or bearing weight
- Swelling around the foot, ankle, or heel
- Stiffness or reduced range of motion in the ankle joint
- Tenderness or pain when touching the affected area
- Bruising or redness following an injury
- Instability or the feeling that the ankle may give way
- Difficulty walking, running, or performing daily activities
In some cases, symptoms may develop gradually due to overuse or degenerative conditions, or appear suddenly after a fall, twist or sports injury. It is advisable to consult a specialist if foot and ankle pain persists despite rest, worsens over time or begins to interfere with walking, exercise or daily activities.
Our Specialised Treatments for Foot and Ankle Pain Conditions
Treatment for foot and ankle pain depends on the underlying condition, the severity of symptoms, and how the problem affects mobility and daily activities. At HC Orthopaedic Surgery, Dr Tang Zhi Hao provides both minimally invasive and reconstructive surgical procedures to treat a range of foot and ankle conditions. Each treatment plan is tailored to the individual and aims to relieve pain, restore stability and improve mobility when non-surgical options are insufficient.
Bunion Surgery
Bunion surgery aims to correct the alignment of the big toe joint and remove the bony prominence that forms at its base. The procedure helps reduce pain, improve foot alignment and make walking or wearing shoes more comfortable.
Ankle Replacement Surgery
Ankle replacement surgery involves replacing a damaged ankle joint with a prosthetic implant. This procedure is typically considered for advanced ankle arthritis and is designed to relieve pain while preserving joint movement.
Achilles Tendon Surgery
Achilles tendon surgery may be recommended for severe tendon tears or chronic tendon problems that do not respond to non-surgical treatment. The procedure involves repairing or reconstructing the damaged tendon to restore strength and function.
Ankle Ligament Reconstruction
Ankle ligament reconstruction is performed to stabilise the ankle when ligaments have been severely damaged or repeatedly injured. The procedure repairs or reconstructs the ligaments to improve joint stability and reduce the risk of recurrent ankle sprains.
Flat Foot Correction Surgery
Flat foot correction surgery addresses structural problems that cause the arch of the foot to collapse. The procedure may involve tendon repair, bone realignment or joint stabilisation to restore the arch and improve foot function.
Orthopaedic Specialist
Our Foot and Ankle Specialist, Dr Tang Zhi Hao
Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon
- Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS), Singapore
- Member of the Royal College of Surgeons (MRCS), Edinburgh
- Master of Medicine (Orthopaedic Surgery), Singapore
- Fellow of the Royal College of Surgeons (Orthopaedics) (FRCS), Edinburgh
Dr Tang Zhi Hao is a consultant orthopaedic surgeon with 19+ years of medical experience and a clinical focus on foot and ankle conditions. He completed a clinical fellowship in foot and ankle surgery at Severance Hospital, Yonsei University Health System in Seoul, where he trained under Professor Jin Woo Lee, former President of the International Federation of Foot and Ankle Societies.
His clinical interests include hallux valgus correction, ankle ligament repair, ankle arthroscopy, and the management of foot deformities such as flatfoot. Dr Tang also treats a range of foot and ankle conditions including plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendon disorders, ankle arthritis, osteochondral injuries, and fractures.
Before entering private practice, Dr Tang served as a consultant and Deputy Head of Department at Khoo Teck Puat Hospital. He was also part of the hospital’s multi-disciplinary Diabetic Foot Unit, where he managed complex foot conditions including diabetic foot ulcers and infections.
Dr Tang has published in peer-reviewed international journals such as Foot and Ankle International and has been actively involved in orthopaedic education, including teaching medical students and training residents through hands-on cadaveric workshops. His approach focuses on providing patient-centred, evidence-based care to help individuals regain mobility and return to their daily activities.
Why Choose HC Orthopaedic Surgery for Foot and Ankle Pain
Our goal is to help you regain comfortable movement and return to your normal routine. Whether your foot or ankle pain is caused by a sports injury, ligament damage, structural deformity or long-term joint wear, we focus on identifying the underlying cause and guiding you towards the treatment that best supports your recovery.
Fellowship-trained Foot and Ankle Specialist
Dr Tang Zhi Hao is a consultant orthopaedic surgeon with fellowship training in foot and ankle surgery from Severance Hospital, Yonsei University Health System in Seoul. He specialises in managing conditions such as bunions, ankle ligament injuries, flatfoot deformities and ankle arthritis, using both minimally invasive and reconstructive surgical techniques where appropriate.
Advanced Foot and Ankle Surgical Techniques
When surgery is required, many foot and ankle conditions can be treated using modern surgical approaches designed to improve precision and recovery. These may include minimally invasive procedures, ankle arthroscopy and reconstructive techniques to restore joint stability, correct deformities and relieve pain.
Care for Active and Everyday Mobility
Foot and ankle conditions can affect both athletic performance and daily movement. Treatment focuses not only on resolving pain but also on restoring stability, walking comfort and overall function, helping patients return safely to sports, work and everyday activities.
Collaborative Orthopaedic Expertise
HC Orthopaedic Surgery brings together experienced orthopaedic specialists including Dr Henry Chan, Dr Nicholas Yeoh, Dr Toon Dong Hao and Dr Tang Zhi Hao. This collaborative environment allows patients with foot and ankle conditions to benefit from a broad range of orthopaedic expertise, particularly when managing complex injuries or cases that may involve multiple joints.
Your Foot and Ankle Care Journey at HC Orthopaedic Surgery
Managing foot and ankle pain begins with understanding its cause and choosing the treatment that best supports your recovery. At HC Orthopaedic Surgery, your care follows a structured approach, from accurate diagnosis to personalised treatment and rehabilitation, helping you regain comfortable movement and return safely to your daily activities.
Diagnosis
Treatment
Rehabilitation and Long-term Foot and Ankle Care
Who Is at Risk of Developing Foot and Ankle Pain?
Foot and ankle pain can affect people of all ages, but certain activities, occupations and medical conditions may increase the likelihood of developing foot and ankle problems.
People who may be at higher risk of developing foot and ankle pain include:
Athletes and Active Individuals
People who participate in sports that involve running, jumping or sudden changes in direction, such as football, basketball, tennis or running, place repeated stress on the foot and ankle. Over time, this can lead to conditions such as ankle sprains, Achilles tendon injuries or stress fractures.
Individuals with Physically Demanding Jobs
Jobs that require prolonged standing, walking or heavy lifting can place continuous strain on the feet and ankles. Occupations in construction, healthcare, retail and manual labour may increase the risk of overuse injuries, joint pain or tendon problems.
Older Adults
As people age, the joints, tendons and cartilage in the foot and ankle may undergo gradual wear and tear. This can increase the likelihood of developing degenerative conditions such as ankle arthritis, tendon degeneration or structural changes in the foot.
People with Previous Foot or Ankle Injuries
Individuals who have experienced ankle sprains, fractures or tendon injuries may be more prone to recurring foot and ankle problems. Damage to ligaments or joint structures can sometimes lead to long-term instability or chronic pain.
Individuals with Certain Medical Conditions
Some medical conditions, such as diabetes, inflammatory arthritis or connective tissue disorders, may increase the risk of foot and ankle complications. These conditions can affect joint health, circulation or nerve function in the lower limbs.
People with Structural Foot Problems
Certain structural conditions, such as flat feet or bunions, may alter the way weight is distributed across the foot and ankle. Over time, this imbalance can place additional strain on joints and soft tissues, leading to discomfort or pain.
How to Prevent Foot and Ankle Pain
While not all foot and ankle conditions can be prevented, certain habits and lifestyle adjustments may help reduce the risk of developing pain or injuries. Maintaining good foot strength, flexibility and proper movement patterns plays an important role in protecting the joints and soft tissues during daily activities and sports.
Wear Supportive Footwear
Shoes that provide proper arch support, cushioning and stability can help reduce strain on the feet and ankles. Choosing footwear that fits well and suits your daily activities or sports can lower the risk of overuse injuries and joint stress.
Strengthen Foot and Ankle Muscles
Regular exercises that strengthen the muscles around the foot and ankle can improve stability and balance. Strong supporting muscles help protect the joints and ligaments, which may reduce the risk of sprains, tendon injuries and other foot problems.
Warm Up Before Physical Activity
Engaging in a proper warm-up before exercise or sports helps prepare the foot and ankle muscles, tendons and ligaments for activity. Gentle stretching and mobility exercises can improve flexibility and reduce the likelihood of strains or injuries.
Avoid Repetitive Overuse
Repeated high-impact activities such as running or jumping without adequate rest can place excessive stress on the feet and ankles. Gradually increasing activity levels and allowing time for recovery can help prevent overuse injuries.
Maintain a Healthy Body Weight
Excess body weight can increase the load placed on the foot and ankle joints during standing and walking. Maintaining a healthy weight may help reduce stress on these joints and lower the risk of pain or degenerative changes.
Address Minor Foot or Ankle Pain Early
Ignoring mild discomfort may allow the condition to worsen over time. Seeking early evaluation and managing symptoms promptly can help prevent more serious foot and ankle problems from developing.
Non-Surgical Care
Home Remedies for Foot and Ankle Pain
Mild foot or ankle pain from minor strain or overuse may sometimes improve with simple home care. These measures can help reduce discomfort and support recovery. However, persistent or worsening pain should be assessed by a foot and ankle specialist.
Non-Surgical Care
Home Remedies for Foot and Ankle Pain
Mild foot or ankle pain from minor strain or overuse may sometimes improve with simple home care. These measures can help reduce discomfort and support recovery. However, persistent or worsening pain should be assessed by a foot and ankle specialist.
Rest and Activity Modification
Avoid activities that aggravate the pain, especially prolonged standing, running or high-impact exercise, to allow the foot or ankle time to recover.
Cold or Warm Compress
Cold packs may help reduce swelling in the early stages of injury, while warm compresses can help relax tight muscles and relieve stiffness once swelling has settled.
Gentle Stretching
Light stretching and controlled foot and ankle movements may help maintain flexibility and reduce stiffness, as long as they do not worsen the pain.
Over-the-counter Pain Relief
Non-prescription medications such as paracetamol or anti-inflammatory medicines may help relieve mild pain when used according to instructions.
Cost of Foot and Ankle Pain Treatment in Singapore
The cost of treating foot and ankle pain can vary depending on the underlying condition and the type of treatment required. Factors such as diagnostic tests, surgical complexity, hospital charges and rehabilitation needs may influence the overall cost of care.
Key Cost Drivers
Several factors can affect the cost of shoulder pain treatment in Singapore:
Type of treatment required
Diagnostic tests
Complexity of the procedure
Hospital and facility fees
Post-treatment rehabilitation
Insurance and Financing
Some foot and ankle surgeries may be MediSave-claimable, depending on the procedure and its classification under Singapore’s Table of Surgical Procedures. Patients with MediShield Life or Integrated Shield Plans may also receive coverage for hospitalisation and surgery, which can help reduce out-of-pocket costs.
For a clearer estimate, patients are encouraged to consult the clinic for a personalised cost breakdown based on their diagnosis and recommended treatment plan.
Comprehensive Foot and Ankle Care at HC Orthopaedic Surgery
Foot and ankle pain can develop from a wide range of conditions affecting the bones, joints, tendons and ligaments that support movement and weight-bearing. Because the feet and ankles are involved in almost every step you take, persistent pain or reduced mobility can quickly begin to affect work, exercise and daily routines. Seeking timely assessment allows the underlying cause to be identified and managed appropriately, helping to restore movement, reduce discomfort and support long-term foot and ankle health.
Comprehensive Foot and Ankle Care at HC Orthopaedic Surgery
Foot and ankle pain can develop from a wide range of conditions affecting the bones, joints, tendons and ligaments that support movement and weight-bearing. Because the feet and ankles are involved in almost every step you take, persistent pain or reduced mobility can quickly begin to affect work, exercise and daily routines. Seeking timely assessment allows the underlying cause to be identified and managed appropriately, helping to restore movement, reduce discomfort and support long-term foot and ankle health.
Our Specialised Team
At HC Orthopaedic Surgery, foot and ankle care is led by Dr Tang Zhi Hao, a consultant orthopaedic surgeon with fellowship training in foot and ankle surgery. He provides evidence-based care for a range of conditions including bunions, ankle ligament injuries, tendon disorders and ankle arthritis, using both non-surgical treatments and advanced surgical techniques where appropriate. Patients may also benefit from the collaborative expertise of the HC Orthopaedic Surgery team, including Dr Henry Chan, Dr Nicholas Yeoh and Dr Toon Dong Hao, particularly when managing complex orthopaedic conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Foot and Ankle Pain
What are the most common causes of foot and ankle pain?
How long does foot or ankle pain usually last?
Can foot and ankle pain heal without surgery?
What tests are used to diagnose foot and ankle pain?
When should I see a foot and ankle specialist?
Is it okay to exercise through mild foot or ankle pain?
Meet Our Specialist Team
Our team comprises Dr Henry Chan, Dr Nicholas Yeoh, Dr Toon Dong Hao, and Dr Tang Zhi Hao — experienced orthopaedic surgeons with subspecialty experience and a patient-centred approach to care.
Dr Henry Chan
Medical Director & Senior Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon
MBBS (S’pore), MRCS (Edinburgh), MMed (Orthopaedic Surgery), FRCS (Edinburgh)
Dr Henry Chan is an experienced orthopaedic surgeon specialising in joint replacement and complex revision surgery. Trained at the renowned Helios Endo-Klinik in Germany under the MOH HMDP scholarship, he has performed over 1,000 joint replacements and specialises in computer-assisted and robotic joint replacement techniques for precise outcomes.
Dr Nicholas Yeoh
Senior Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon
MBChB (Edinburgh), MRCS (Edinburgh), MMed (Orthopaedic Surgery), FRCS (Edinburgh)
Dr Nicholas Yeoh is an MOH-accredited orthopaedic specialist and Fellow of the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh. Fellowship-trained in hip and knee reconstruction in Sydney under the MOH HMDP scholarship, he specialises in minimally invasive joint replacement, robotic surgery and advanced techniques that enhance recovery and surgical outcomes.
Dr Toon Dong Hao
Senior Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon
MBChB (Leeds), MRCS (Edinburgh), MMed (Orthopaedic Surgery), FRCS (Edinburgh)
Dr Toon Dong Hao is a skilled orthopaedic surgeon and Fellow of the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh. Fellowship-trained in Advanced Shoulder and Elbow Surgery in Sydney under the MOH HMDP scholarship, Dr Toon specialises in sports injuries, arthroscopic surgery and complex shoulder, elbow and knee procedures to restore function and mobility.
Dr Tang Zhi Hao
Senior Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon
MBBS (S’pore), MRCS (Edinburgh), MMed (Orthopaedic Surgery), FRCS (Edinburgh)
Dr Tang Zhi Hao is a fellowship-trained orthopaedic surgeon specialising in foot and ankle conditions. He completed his Foot and Ankle Surgery fellowship at Severance Hospital, Yonsei University Health System in Seoul under Professor Jin Woo Lee. Prior to private practice, he served as Consultant and Deputy Head of Orthopaedics at Khoo Teck Puat Hospital.