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Mr Lucky JeyaseelanConsultant Trauma & Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Surgeon
Patient information

Complex deformity

Some people have severe or combined deformities of the foot and ankle that affect walking and footwear.

Medically reviewed by Mr Lucky Jeyaseelan, Consultant Trauma & Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Surgeon (GMC 6164291) · Last reviewed October 2026

What is it?

Some people have severe or combined deformities of the foot and ankle that affect walking and footwear.

What causes it?

  • Nerve or muscle conditions, such as Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease, stroke or polio.
  • Clubfoot treated in childhood.
  • Previous injuries.
  • Earlier surgery that has not worked.

Common symptoms

  • Difficulty walking.
  • Pressure areas and calluses.
  • Instability.
  • Problems fitting shoes.

How is it diagnosed?

Assessment includes a detailed examination, X-rays, CT and MRI scans, and sometimes nerve tests.

Things you can do now

  • Wear supportive or custom-made footwear
  • Look after the skin over pressure points
  • Keep up strength and flexibility with physiotherapy

Treatment

Treatment is tailored to your individual needs, symptoms and goals. Depending on your situation, it may include bracing, specialist footwear, physiotherapy and planned staged reconstruction combining tendon transfers, bone realignment and fusion.

Mr Jeyaseelan will talk you through the options that are right for you at your consultation.

When to see a specialist

  • The deformity is getting worse
  • Footwear or braces no longer help
  • There are sores or calluses over pressure points

What to expect

Complex deformities often need a carefully planned, sometimes staged, approach. Surgery can create a stable, comfortable foot that fits in shoes.

Common questions

Where can I see a specialist about complex deformity in London?

Mr Lucky Jeyaseelan, a consultant orthopaedic surgeon who specialises only in the foot and ankle, sees private and insured patients with complex deformity at Align Orthopaedics on Harley Street, The London Clinic on Devonshire Place, HCA London Bridge Hospital, HCA UK at The Shard, HCA UK City of London on Old Broad Street and The Holly Hospital in Buckhurst Hill, Essex. See all clinic locations or request an appointment.

Do I need a GP referral?

Self-funding patients can book directly, though a GP letter is helpful. Most insurers need a GP referral before they authorise your consultation, so check with yours first.

This information is general and is not a substitute for a medical consultation. Your diagnosis and treatment plan will be tailored to you.

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