David Daniels Vier, MD

David Vier
November 24, 2025

About the Author

Dr. Vier is a Board certified fellowship trained foot and ankle orthopedic surgeon in Dallas and Rockwall, Texas.

foot and ankle orthopedic surgeon

Your feet and ankles are the foundation of your body – supporting you with every step, run, and stride. When pain, injury, or deformity occurs, it affects far more than just your mobility; it impacts your confidence, comfort, and quality of life. That’s why choosing the right specialist for care is essential.

Dr. David Vier, a leading orthopedic foot and ankle surgeon in Dallas, TX, provides comprehensive, compassionate care for all types of foot and ankle conditions – from bunions and fractures to chronic joint issues and sports injuries. His combination of advanced training, minimally invasive surgical expertise, and patient-focused care makes him a trusted name in orthopedic foot and ankle health across the Dallas area.

When it comes to lasting relief and mobility restoration, specialized care from a foot and ankle orthopedic surgeon makes all the difference.

What Does a Foot and Ankle Orthopedic Surgeon Do?

An orthopedic foot and ankle surgeon is a medical doctor who specializes in diagnosing, treating, and surgically correcting conditions that affect the foot and ankle bones, tendons, joints, and ligaments.

Orthopedic Surgeon vs. Podiatrist – What’s the Difference?

While both treat foot and ankle issues, their training and focus differ:

  • Podiatrists specialize in general foot care, nail disorders, and some surgical procedures.

  • Orthopedic foot and ankle surgeons undergo extensive medical, surgical, and fellowship training focused on the entire musculoskeletal system – allowing them to handle complex injuries, fractures, deformities, and reconstructions.

This depth of expertise enables orthopedic surgeons to manage cases that involve bones, ligaments, tendons, and muscles together, leading to more complete and lasting outcomes – particularly for problems like ankle fractures, bunion deformities, and chronic instability.

Bunion Problems & Advanced Bunion Surgery in Dallas

Understanding Bunions

A bunion is a painful, bony bump that forms at the base of the big toe. Over time, it can cause the toe to lean toward the others, leading to pain, swelling, redness, and difficulty wearing shoes.
Bunions often worsen progressively and can be influenced by:

  • Genetics
  • Poor footwear
  • Arthritis or flat feet
  • Imbalanced foot mechanics

Traditional vs. Modern Bunion Surgery

Traditional bunion surgery often involved large incisions and lengthy recovery periods. Today, however, advanced minimally invasive bunion surgery techniques allow for smaller incisions, faster healing, and reduced postoperative pain.

Why Choose an Orthopedic Specialist

When searching for the best doctors for bunion surgery in Dallas, TX, patients often turn to orthopedic specialists. A foot and ankle orthopedic surgeon like Dr. Vier offers precision correction – addressing both bone alignment and joint stability to prevent recurrence.

Benefits of Modern Bunion Surgery

  • Smaller incisions, less scarring
  • Faster recovery times
  • Reduced pain and swelling
  • Improved toe alignment and long-term function

Dr. David Vier’s Approach

Dr. Vier combines detailed imaging, personalized planning, and modern surgical techniques to deliver long-lasting results. His patients benefit from his experience, advanced instrumentation, and focus on comfort and recovery.

Whether you have mild discomfort or a severe deformity, his treatment plan aims to correct alignment, reduce pain, and restore natural walking mechanics – helping patients regain confidence with every step.

Expert Care for Broken Ankles & Ankle Fractures

What Causes Ankle Fractures

Ankle fractures occur when one or more bones of the ankle joint – typically the tibia, fibula, or talus – break due to trauma, twisting injuries, or falls. Sports injuries and car accidents are common causes.

orthopedic foot and ankle surgeon

Signs You Might Have a Broken Ankle

  • Severe pain, swelling, and bruising
  • Inability to put weight on the affected foot
  • Visible deformity or misalignment
  • A “cracking” sound at the time of injury

Why You Need a Specialized Ankle Fracture Doctor

Ankle fractures are complex because the joint involves multiple bones, ligaments, and cartilage surfaces. Misalignment or improper healing can lead to chronic pain or arthritis later in life.

That’s why seeking immediate care from a trained ankle fracture doctor or broken ankle doctor is critical. A general practitioner may provide basic care, but only an orthopedic foot and ankle surgeon can ensure precise realignment, stabilization, and long-term joint preservation.

Evaluation & Diagnosis

An orthopedic evaluation typically includes:

  • Physical examination for swelling, tenderness, and deformity
  • X-rays or CT scans for detailed bone imaging
  • Assessment of ligament and tendon involvement

Treatment Options

  • Non-Surgical: For stable fractures, immobilization with a cast or boot may be sufficient.
  • Surgical: In displaced or unstable fractures, surgery is required to realign and stabilize bones using plates, screws, or rods.

Dr. Vier’s Surgical Expertise

As a trusted ankle fracture doctor in Dallas, TX, Dr. Vier performs advanced procedures to restore the joint’s natural alignment and stability. He uses modern fixation systems and imaging guidance to ensure accuracy and promote faster recovery.

His approach prioritizes early motion when possible – helping patients regain strength and mobility quickly through guided physical therapy and progressive rehabilitation.

Recovery Timeline

  • 6–8 weeks: Bone healing and weight-bearing with protection
  • 3–4 months: Strength and flexibility training
  • 6+ months: Return to full activity and sports

Dr. Vier’s comprehensive care model ensures patients receive expert follow-up and personalized rehab programs designed to achieve optimal outcomes.

Other Conditions Treated by an Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Surgeon

While bunions and fractures are common reasons to visit, orthopedic foot and ankle surgeons treat a wide range of conditions, including:

1. Tendon Injuries

From Achilles tendon tears to peroneal tendon disorders, tendon injuries can cause weakness, swelling, and chronic pain.

2. Flatfoot Deformities

Fallen arches or adult-acquired flatfoot can cause instability and joint strain; surgical reconstruction may be required for advanced cases.

3. Chronic Instability

Recurring sprains often indicate ligament damage. Advanced repair techniques help restore strength and prevent re-injury.

4. Sports Injuries

Athletes frequently suffer from stress fractures, ligament tears, and cartilage injuries – all of which benefit from early orthopedic intervention.

5. Heel Pain & Plantar Fasciitis

Persistent heel pain may indicate inflammation of the plantar fascia, which can often be treated with orthotics, therapy, or injections.

6. Foot Deformities

Conditions such as hammertoes, claw toes, or joint misalignments can be corrected surgically to improve comfort and function.

Why Patients in Dallas Trust Dr. David Vier

Dallas-area patients choose Dr. David Vier for his combination of technical skill, experience, and compassion.

Credentials & Expertise

  • Board-Certified Orthopedic Surgeon specializing in foot and ankle care
  • Extensive surgical experience with bunion correction, ankle reconstruction, and fracture repair
  • Modern Diagnostic Tools, including on-site X-rays, digital imaging, and 3D modeling for preoperative planning
  • Minimally Invasive Techniques that prioritize faster healing and reduced discomfort

Patient-Focused Care

Dr. Vier believes in clear communication, collaborative decision-making, and empowering patients through education. Every treatment plan is custom-tailored for the patient’s goals, pain level, and lifestyle.

Local Accessibility

Located conveniently in Dallas, TX, Dr. Vier’s clinic welcomes patients from across the metro area – making advanced orthopedic care more accessible than ever.

What to Expect During Diagnosis & Treatment

When you visit an orthopedic foot and ankle surgeon, expect a comprehensive evaluation that includes:

  1. Medical History & Physical Examination
    Understanding your symptoms, activity level, and injury background.

  2. Imaging Tests
    X-rays, MRI, or CT scans to assess bone and soft tissue damage.

  3. Diagnosis & Treatment Plan
    Detailed explanation of findings and personalized treatment recommendations.

  4. Conservative vs. Surgical Decision Making
    Whenever possible, Dr. Vier begins with non-surgical options before considering surgery.

  5. Rehabilitation & Follow-Up
    Customized physical therapy programs ensure safe recovery and lasting mobility.

Patients appreciate the transparency and guidance they receive throughout the process – from diagnosis to full recovery.

Prevention Tips for Foot & Ankle Health

Even the best treatment can’t replace prevention. Protecting your foot and ankle health can minimize the risk of injuries or degenerative conditions.

Tips for Long-Term Wellness

  • Wear Proper Footwear: Choose shoes that fit well and offer proper arch and ankle support.
  • Stretch and Strengthen: Regular stretching keeps ligaments flexible and reduces stiffness.
  • Avoid High Heels or Tight Shoes: These increase pressure on joints and toes.
  • Maintain a Healthy Weight: Reduces strain on the lower extremities.
  • Prevent Sports Injuries: Warm up, use protective gear, and avoid overtraining.
  • Watch for Warning Signs: Persistent swelling, pain, or stiffness should never be ignored.

Early consultation with a foot and ankle orthopedic surgeon can prevent minor issues from developing into long-term conditions.

FAQs

Q1: Do I need a foot and ankle orthopedic surgeon for bunions?
Yes. Orthopedic specialists can correct deformities with precision, offering minimally invasive surgical options that ensure long-term results.

Q2: How do I know if I broke my ankle?
Severe pain, swelling, bruising, and inability to bear weight are common signs. You should see a broken ankle doctor immediately for evaluation and imaging.

Q3: What separates an ankle fracture doctor from a general orthopedic surgeon?
An ankle fracture specialist has focused training in the complex anatomy of the ankle, allowing for more accurate diagnosis and reconstruction of bone and ligament injuries.

Q4: Is minimally invasive bunion surgery available in Dallas?
Yes. Dr. Vier offers minimally invasive bunion surgery that reduces recovery time and scarring while improving alignment and comfort.

Q5: How soon can I book an appointment with Dr. Vier?
You can schedule directly without a referral. Visit davidviermd.com or call the clinic to request a consultation.

Conclusion: Choose Expert Care for Your Foot and Ankle Health

When it comes to complex or chronic foot and ankle conditions, expertise matters. Whether you’re dealing with painful bunions, a recent fracture, or ongoing instability, you deserve care from a trusted orthopedic specialist who understands both surgical precision and compassionate recovery.

Dr. David Vier, an experienced orthopedic foot and ankle surgeon in Dallas, TX, provides advanced care for patients with foot and ankle pain, deformities, and injuries. As one of the best doctors for bunion surgery in Dallas, TX, and a trusted ankle fracture doctor and broken ankle doctor, he is dedicated to helping patients regain mobility and live pain-free lives.

From modern minimally invasive bunion surgery to expert ankle fracture reconstruction and comprehensive orthopedic care, Dr. Vier’s approach combines innovation, experience, and personalized treatment for exceptional results.

Take the first step toward lasting relief today.
Schedule your consultation with Dr. David Vier by visiting davidviermd.com – Dallas’s destination for complete foot and ankle care.

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