Bunions are the foot problem that people—women in particular—have experienced for generations. Fortunately, today’s bunion surgeries (bunionectomies) are easier and more effective than ever. Here is more information on why bunions form and what kinds of surgeries can correct them.
What Is a Bunion?
Also called hallux valgus, a bunion is a very common acquired foot deformity. It develops when the bones of the big toe and foot—specifically the metatarsal bones—move out of proper alignment. The joint at the base of the big toe enlarges, causing it to push against other toes and jut outward at an angle.
Bunions are often caused by wearing poorly fitting shoes that place pressure on the toes over time. Examples are shoes with very high heels and/or pointed, narrow toe boxes that crowd the forefoot and toes.
Bunions often run in families, which means many people are genetically predisposed to developing this foot condition. Additionally, bunions may develop as a result of an underlying medical condition, such as arthritis.
Symptoms of Bunions
The most common symptom of a bunion is a visible bump on the side of the foot near the base of the big toe. Other symptoms may include pain, redness, swelling, and stiffness in the affected area.
Some people may experience difficulty walking due to joint stiffening. They may also have trouble fitting into shoes due to the size and shape of their bunions.
Will I Need a Bunionectomy?
Many patients with bunions question if they will need surgery to return their feet to their normal shapes and to improve their comfort, shoe fit, and ability to walk. Your foot and ankle doctor will be able to determine how severe your bunion is and what treatment options would benefit you.
The vast majority of bunions are managed with conservative measures. These include wearing comfortable, supportive footwear, using custom-made orthotic shoe inserts, and taking over-the- counter pain medication as needed.
However, for more severe cases in which the bunion causes constant pain and mobility issues, your podiatric doctor may recommend surgery. A bunionectomy involves removing the bump on the side of the foot and realigning the bones in the affected area if necessary.
Recovery time after bunionectomy varies depending on the extent of the procedure. However, most patients return to regular activities within six to eight weeks.
For the most part, bunionectomy surgery should be considered as a last resort after all other conservative treatments have been exhausted. It is important to consult with your foot and ankle doctor and weigh the potential risks and benefits of various treatments before deciding on a bunionectomy.
What Kinds of Bunionectomy Surgeries Are There?
There are several types of bunionectomy surgeries. The one which is right for you depends on the severity and location of the bunion. The kinds of bunionectomy include the following procedures.
Osteotomy
This is the most common bunionectomy procedure. During the surgery, your doctor will make an incision near your big toe joint and realign the big toe and second toe as needed. They will also remove any excess bone or tissue.
Arthrodesis
Also known as fusion surgery, this procedure removes a severe bunion and fuses the affected bones to eliminate movement and to reduce pain. This kind of bunionectomy involves the installation of some hardware to help the toes to heal properly.
Exostectomy
In this surgery, only the bump on the side of the foot is removed without making any changes to the bones. This procedure is an option for very small bunions. However, it does not correct any underlying deformity and is often used for cosmetic purposes only.
Regardless of which type of bunionectomy is performed, patients should follow post-operative care instructions carefully to ensure proper healing and recovery. This may include wearing a protective boot or shoe, elevating the foot, and avoiding certain activities for a period of time.
Bunionectomy Surgery in Naples, FL
At the Joint Replacement Institute in Naples, FL, our highly qualified foot and ankle surgeon is Dr. Cody Togher. As with all our bunion patients, he will sit down with you to discuss your symptoms, examine your affected foot, and do imaging to customize your treatment plan. If you do need surgery, rest assured you will receive the best of pre- and post-operative care and rehabilitation to get you moving well again.
Please contact us to arrange a one-on-one visit with Dr. Togher. He will answer all your questions fully, so you feel comfortable with your bunion care going forward.
Call us today at (239) 261-2663 or request an appointment by filling out our online form here. We look forward to seeing you in our office soon!
