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.
If treated early on with a brace or splint on the toe the condition can improve somewhat and if there is irritation to the adjacent toe, corn pads may be helpful, but most often they only relieve the pain temporarily. There are certain types of shoes which are more accommodating to bunions, and if fallen arches are an issue, arch supports can be worn.
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.
The proper name for the procedure is an "osteotomy". The bone of the big toe, called the metatarsal bone is divided and put back into its normal position and the bony protrusion is trimmed away. Strength is restored to the large toe and the upper foot is effectively narrowed. The bones will be held together with surgical screws or staples until it heals fully and a special type of post-operative shoe is worn to protect it.
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.
Overall, there is a marked improvement in most patients. Very rarely a complication may occur such as skin infection, blood clot, toe sensitization, stiffness, problems with surgical screws, non-healing of the bone, or a problem with weight being transferred to the second toe and a corn forming on it as a result. These incidents are very uncommon though, and most people enjoy good results.
When interested in the prospect of bunion surgery San Francisco patients need to understand that this operation is considered the last resort once all other attempts to manage pain and symptoms have failed. It isn't normally recommended as a means of preventing advancement of the disorder or to improve the appearance of the feet.
If treated early on with a brace or splint on the toe the condition can improve somewhat and if there is irritation to the adjacent toe, corn pads may be helpful, but most often they only relieve the pain temporarily. There are certain types of shoes which are more accommodating to bunions, and if fallen arches are an issue, arch supports can be worn.
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.
The proper name for the procedure is an "osteotomy". The bone of the big toe, called the metatarsal bone is divided and put back into its normal position and the bony protrusion is trimmed away. Strength is restored to the large toe and the upper foot is effectively narrowed. The bones will be held together with surgical screws or staples until it heals fully and a special type of post-operative shoe is worn to protect it.
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.
Overall, there is a marked improvement in most patients. Very rarely a complication may occur such as skin infection, blood clot, toe sensitization, stiffness, problems with surgical screws, non-healing of the bone, or a problem with weight being transferred to the second toe and a corn forming on it as a result. These incidents are very uncommon though, and most people enjoy good results.
When interested in the prospect of bunion surgery San Francisco patients need to understand that this operation is considered the last resort once all other attempts to manage pain and symptoms have failed. It isn't normally recommended as a means of preventing advancement of the disorder or to improve the appearance of the feet.
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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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