A bunion is an often painful condition that arises when the joint of the big toe gets shifted excessively inwards, causing it to bulge out. When this happens, it can be uncomfortable standing for extended periods and even walking, and the other toes can get crowded out. High heels are often the culprit, making women more susceptible to bunions than men. It can be corrected surgically, but it's a good idea if before going ahead with bunion surgery San Francisco patients first find out all the details.
A brace or splint to the toe joint early on may help the problem somewhat and slow does its progression, and corn pads can ease pain caused by pressure, but these measures don't normally produce the same results as the more permanent surgery. It can help to wear footwear with a wider toe box to more comfortably house the bunion, and arch supports can aid if flat feet are the problem.
Those bunions which are more severe can only be remedied by a surgical procedure. If a patient has not responded well to non-operative measures and is considerably afflicted with pain, surgery is indicated. The operation is performed while the patient is given a combination of local and general anesthetic, with more of the former used so less of the latter is needed. It is often done as an out-patient procedure, but sometimes an overnight stay is necessary.
The procedure is known as an "osteotomy" and it involves separating the metatarsal bones of the big toe and putting them back together in their correct location using surgical screws or staples. The bony bulge of the bunion is removed, the joint is given strength and the upper part of the foot is narrowed as a result. A post-operative, protective shoe is worn on the affected foot to promote healing.
Following surgery, the foot will be bandaged, swollen, and painful, but pain medications will be given and keeping the foot elevated helps reduce the swelling. The post-op shoe will need to be worn at all times, even when in bed. Stitches will be taken out after two weeks time, and it's important to exercise the toe starting right after the operation in order to prevent stiffness.
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.
A brace or splint to the toe joint early on may help the problem somewhat and slow does its progression, and corn pads can ease pain caused by pressure, but these measures don't normally produce the same results as the more permanent surgery. It can help to wear footwear with a wider toe box to more comfortably house the bunion, and arch supports can aid if flat feet are the problem.
Those bunions which are more severe can only be remedied by a surgical procedure. If a patient has not responded well to non-operative measures and is considerably afflicted with pain, surgery is indicated. The operation is performed while the patient is given a combination of local and general anesthetic, with more of the former used so less of the latter is needed. It is often done as an out-patient procedure, but sometimes an overnight stay is necessary.
The procedure is known as an "osteotomy" and it involves separating the metatarsal bones of the big toe and putting them back together in their correct location using surgical screws or staples. The bony bulge of the bunion is removed, the joint is given strength and the upper part of the foot is narrowed as a result. A post-operative, protective shoe is worn on the affected foot to promote healing.
Following surgery, the foot will be bandaged, swollen, and painful, but pain medications will be given and keeping the foot elevated helps reduce the swelling. The post-op shoe will need to be worn at all times, even when in bed. Stitches will be taken out after two weeks time, and it's important to exercise the toe starting right after the operation in order to prevent stiffness.
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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When there is an urgent need to undergo bunion surgery San Francisco patients can trust our foot doctor to perform this procedure. For a consultation today, go to http://www.footanklesf.com.
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