Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Specialist in Cheltenham
Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Specialist in Cheltenham
Foot and ankle problems can quietly affect everyday life from walking and standing to work, exercise, and sleep. In Cheltenham, patients have access to consultant-led orthopaedic care focused solely on the diagnosis and treatment of foot and ankle conditions, with an emphasis on accuracy, safety, and long-term results.
Each consultation is led by a specialist who takes the time to understand how symptoms developed and how they impact daily activities. Care is based on detailed clinical assessment rather than assumptions, ensuring that treatment addresses the underlying cause rather than just the discomfort. Where appropriate, minimally invasive techniques are considered to support recovery while minimising disruption to surrounding tissues.
Patients in Cheltenham are guided through their options with clarity and honesty. Conservative treatments are explored first, and surgery is recommended only when it is genuinely necessary and expected to provide meaningful benefit. The aim is to restore movement, reduce pain, and help patients return to daily life with confidence.
Book a consultation in Cheltenham to receive specialist-led advice and a structured approach to foot and ankle care.
Compare Before & After Result
If you suffer with stubborn bunions, misaligned toes, agonising ankle arthritis or persistent
heel pain don’t hesitate to consult with Mr Akimau.
Before
procedures
After
procedures
Why Choose a Specialist
Foot & Ankle Surgeon in Cheltenham
Consultant-Led, Subspecialist Care
Care in Cheltenham is led by a Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon with a dedicated focus on foot and ankle conditions. This subspecialist approach ensures accurate diagnosis and treatment planning based on deep clinical experience rather than a general orthopaedic pathway.
Personalised, Transparent Treatment Plans
No two patients present the same way. Treatment plans are tailored to your condition, lifestyle, and goals, with clear explanations of benefits, risks, and recovery expectations. This allows patients to make informed decisions without pressure.
Foot & Ankle Conditions Treated in Cheltenham
Foot and ankle conditions can vary widely in cause and severity, often affecting mobility, comfort, and overall quality of life. In Cheltenham, care is focused on identifying the underlying cause of symptoms through careful clinical assessment rather than treating pain in isolation.
Forefoot & Toe Conditions
Problems affecting the front of the foot can make walking, standing, and footwear uncomfortable. Common forefoot conditions assessed include:
- Bunions (hallux valgus)
- Big toe arthritis (hallux rigidus)
- Hammer toes and claw toes
- Forefoot pain and metatarsalgia
Treatment is planned based on severity, progression, and functional impact.
Heel & Achilles Problems
Heel and Achilles pain can be persistent and limiting if not managed correctly. Conditions commonly treated include:
- Plantar fasciitis
- Achilles tendinopathy
- Chronic Achilles degeneration
- Insertional heel pain
Both conservative and surgical options are considered depending on symptoms and response to prior treatment.
Ankle Conditions
Ankle disorders can affect stability and confidence in movement, particularly after injury or with degenerative change. Assessment commonly includes:
- Ankle arthritis
- Ligament injuries and instability
- Cartilage damage
- Ongoing ankle pain following trauma
Accurate diagnosis is essential to guide effective treatment and long-term joint health.
Structural Foot Conditions
Structural or alignment-related problems can place abnormal stress on joints and soft tissues over time. These include:
- Flat foot deformity
- High-arched (cavus) foot
- Progressive foot shape changes affecting balance and gait
Management focuses on improving alignment, function, and long-term comfort.
Sports & Activity-Related Injuries
Foot and ankle injuries related to sport or physical activity are assessed with a focus on safe recovery and reducing the risk of recurrence, while supporting a gradual return to activity.
Treatments & Procedures Available in Cheltenham
Treatment in Cheltenham is guided by careful diagnosis, clinical evidence, and a clear understanding of how each condition affects day-to-day life. The approach prioritises effective, proportionate care, with surgery considered only when it is likely to provide meaningful and lasting improvement.
Non-Surgical Management
Many foot and ankle conditions respond well to non-operative treatment, particularly when addressed early. Depending on the diagnosis, this may include:
- Activity and load modification advice
- Targeted rehabilitation guidance
- Injection treatments when clinically appropriate
- Shockwave therapy for selected heel and tendon conditions
The goal of non-surgical care is to reduce pain, improve function, and prevent further progression wherever possible.
Minimally Invasive Foot Surgery
When surgery is required, minimally invasive techniques may be suitable for certain conditions. These procedures use smaller incisions and specialised methods to limit disruption to surrounding tissues. Common indications include:
- Bunion correction
- Lesser toe deformity procedures
- Selected forefoot conditions
Suitability is assessed on an individual basis, and the potential benefits and limitations are discussed in detail before any decision is made.
Ankle Arthroscopy (Keyhole Surgery)
Ankle arthroscopy allows for detailed assessment and treatment of specific ankle problems using small instruments and a camera. This approach may be used for:
- Cartilage injuries
- Ankle impingement
- Removal of loose fragments
- Investigation of persistent ankle pain
This technique can allow precise treatment while minimising soft tissue trauma.
Ankle Arthritis & Advanced Care Options
Management of ankle arthritis depends on severity, activity level, and long-term goals. Treatment options may include:
- Joint-preserving strategies where appropriate
- Pain-relief and mobility-focused treatments
- Surgical intervention for advanced disease, including ankle replacement in selected cases
The emphasis remains on preserving mobility and improving overall quality of life.
Informed, Individualised Decision-Making
All treatment recommendations are made following a detailed discussion covering:
- Expected outcomes
- Possible risks
- Recovery timelines
- Alternative options
Patients are supported in making informed decisions without pressure, with care plans tailored to individual needs and circumstances.
Your Consultation & Treatment Journey in Cheltenham
Care in Cheltenham follows a structured and transparent process, designed to give patients clarity at every stage from the first appointment through recovery and follow-up. The focus is on understanding the condition fully and choosing the most appropriate course of action, not rushing decisions.
Initial Specialist Assessment
Your first consultation is led by a consultant specialising in foot and ankle conditions. Time is taken to discuss:
- Your symptoms and how long they have been present
- How the problem affects daily life, work, or activity
- Any previous treatments or investigations
A detailed physical examination helps assess movement, alignment, strength, and areas of pain or instability.
Diagnostic Review
Where needed, imaging such as X-rays or MRI scans is reviewed alongside clinical findings. This combined assessment helps confirm the diagnosis and ensures that treatment planning is based on both symptoms and underlying structural or mechanical causes.
Treatment Discussion & Planning
All suitable treatment options are explained clearly. This may include conservative management, minimally invasive procedures, or surgery where appropriate. The discussion covers:
- Expected benefits and limitations
- Potential risks
- Likely recovery timelines
Patients are encouraged to ask questions and take time to consider their options before proceeding.
Treatment & Aftercare
If treatment is undertaken, care is delivered with a focus on safety, precision, and comfort. Clear guidance is provided on activity levels, rehabilitation, and what to expect during recovery.
Follow-Up & Long-Term Support
Follow-up appointments are arranged to monitor progress and address any concerns. Recovery plans may be adjusted as needed to support healing and help patients return safely to everyday activities, work, or sport.
About Me
Meet Mr. Pavel Akimau
Trauma & Orthopaedic Surgeon
Mr Akimau has been working as a Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon at University Hospitals of North Staffordshire NHS Trust since 2021. Patients’ wellbeing and genuine willingness to help has always been Mr Akimau top priority. He has got a high calibre expertise in full spectrum of elective and traumatic Foot and Ankle conditions as well as general trauma.
Frequently Asked Questions – Cheltenham
Minimally invasive surgery involves smaller incisions and specialised techniques designed to reduce disruption to surrounding tissues. When suitable, this approach may support a smoother recovery, but it is not appropriate for every condition. Suitability is assessed individually.
Recovery time depends on the condition and type of treatment provided. Non-surgical treatments may allow an earlier return to normal activities, while surgical procedures require a structured recovery period. Clear guidance is provided before any treatment begins.
Imaging is requested only when it is clinically necessary. Existing scans can be reviewed, or new imaging may be arranged to support accurate diagnosis and treatment planning.
Yes. Follow-up appointments are an important part of care. These visits allow progress to be reviewed, recovery to be monitored, and any concerns to be addressed.
Yes. Consultations are designed to provide clarity and guidance. You do not need to decide on treatment before attending; the focus is on understanding your condition and exploring appropriate options.
