A bunion is an often painful protrusion on the joint of the big toe which results when the angle of the toe is shifted inwards too much. The most common cause of this disorder is wearing tight-fitting shoes that place the toes in an abnormal position, leading to the misplacement of this joint which in turn can cause pain and make standing for long periods of time unbearable. There is an operation which can be effective, however it is advisable that before bunion surgery San Francisco patients learn what it entails.
If this condition is caught early, it may be reversed using a splint or brace and the discomfort may be lessened with corn pads, although these measures usually only provide temporary relief. Some types of specially made footwear can also help accommodate this anomaly or arch supports can also be helpful if the problem is caused by fallen arches.
Severe bunions will not likely improve unless surgery is performed. In cases where the patient has not responded positively to less invasive approaches and is struggling with pain, he or she is referred for surgery. This procedure is usually done on an out-patient basis, but occasionally it will be necessary to stay overnight at the hospital. A general anesthetic is given, but in combination with a local anesthetic so less general is needed.
Called an "osteotomy", the procedure consists of dividing the metatarsal or big toe bone in two, repositioning it, and eliminating the bulge of the bunion. This effectively strengthens the joint and narrows the top of the foot. Surgical staples or screws hold the bones in place while it heals and a protective post-operative shoe is also worn.
The bandaged foot can be expected to be painful and swollen following surgery, but these unpleasant sensations can be kept under control with appropriate pain relievers and keeping the foot in an elevated position as much as possible. Exercises should be carried out right away and on an ongoing basis to prevent stiffness, and the post-op shoe must be worn continuously, including in bed. In two week's time stitches can be removed.
Patients must wear the post-op shoe for about six weeks, and then they can switch to an open-toed sandal with straps that can be adjusted. After another six to eight weeks, regular shoes can be worn and once three to six months have passed, sporting activities may be resumed.
Complications from the procedure include stiffness, toe sensitization, skin infection, blood clots, non-healing of the bone, surgical screw problems, and corn formation on the second toe caused by weight transfer, however these seldom occur. The majority of patients are pleased with the outcome.
Before having bunion surgery San Francisco patients should understand that this is a procedure which is recommended as a solution for pain and unmanageable symptoms. It is not advised for those who are merely trying to stave off further escalation of symptoms or simply for esthetic purposes.
If this condition is caught early, it may be reversed using a splint or brace and the discomfort may be lessened with corn pads, although these measures usually only provide temporary relief. Some types of specially made footwear can also help accommodate this anomaly or arch supports can also be helpful if the problem is caused by fallen arches.
Severe bunions will not likely improve unless surgery is performed. In cases where the patient has not responded positively to less invasive approaches and is struggling with pain, he or she is referred for surgery. This procedure is usually done on an out-patient basis, but occasionally it will be necessary to stay overnight at the hospital. A general anesthetic is given, but in combination with a local anesthetic so less general is needed.
Called an "osteotomy", the procedure consists of dividing the metatarsal or big toe bone in two, repositioning it, and eliminating the bulge of the bunion. This effectively strengthens the joint and narrows the top of the foot. Surgical staples or screws hold the bones in place while it heals and a protective post-operative shoe is also worn.
The bandaged foot can be expected to be painful and swollen following surgery, but these unpleasant sensations can be kept under control with appropriate pain relievers and keeping the foot in an elevated position as much as possible. Exercises should be carried out right away and on an ongoing basis to prevent stiffness, and the post-op shoe must be worn continuously, including in bed. In two week's time stitches can be removed.
Patients must wear the post-op shoe for about six weeks, and then they can switch to an open-toed sandal with straps that can be adjusted. After another six to eight weeks, regular shoes can be worn and once three to six months have passed, sporting activities may be resumed.
Complications from the procedure include stiffness, toe sensitization, skin infection, blood clots, non-healing of the bone, surgical screw problems, and corn formation on the second toe caused by weight transfer, however these seldom occur. The majority of patients are pleased with the outcome.
Before having bunion surgery San Francisco patients should understand that this is a procedure which is recommended as a solution for pain and unmanageable symptoms. It is not advised for those who are merely trying to stave off further escalation of symptoms or simply for esthetic purposes.
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