Information On Bunion Surgery San Francisco

By Marsha Klein


A bunion is easily identified on a foot. It has the appearance of a protrusion or bump on the side of a toe. The affected big toe tends to lean towards the small toes. If the condition is not severe, it can be treated using non-surgical methods. However, if these methods fail, it is time to think about getting bunion surgery San Francisco.

Bunions occur when bumps of tissue and bone form on the big toe. They are a misalignment of bone and/or tissue growth. They most often occur on a big toe, but sometimes affect a small toe. They are sometimes red and very painful. If not treated, they tend to get worse.

This affects many more women than men. Genetics is a big contributor to having this condition. If you have immediate family members with this condition, you are much more likely to suffer with bunions as well. However, they can be the result of an injury to the foot like a sprain. Shoes do not cause them, however, wearing shoes that are ill-fitting can worsen the condition.

Usually the first course of action is to try a non-surgical solution. Sometimes wearing wider shoes is enough. Others find that wearing a pad to cover the area helps. Others try taking a anti-inflammatory medicine. Others find that a shot of cortisone helps. If none of these help, it may be time to consider surgery.

The surgeon will first get your medical history. He will give a thorough exam to the foot. Then he will take x-rays to study the foot's anatomy. He then can decide if an operation is the best option.

This type of operation is referred to as a bunionectomy. It corrects the toe deformity and also should help to relieve pain. A regional anesthesia and sedative are usually administered. An incision is made along the side or top of the toe. Bone and/or tissue is then realigned properly. Severe cases may require reinforcement with screws, wires, or pins. It will all depend on your individual needs. The procedure usually takes around an hour and is done as an outpatient.

Recovery time varies depending on the severity of the case. It can fall between six weeks all the way up to six months. Stitches can be removed from just seven days up to twenty-one. If pins or screws were used, they are removed after three up to six weeks. You will need a walking cast or special shoe for a time up to eight weeks. You are required to stay off the feet for some time. Your normal activities can be resumed in about six or eight weeks. If your case was severe, you may be told not to put any weight on the foot for up to eight weeks. In these cases, expect a longer recovery.

The condition my come back after having the operation. However, this usually occurs if the patient continues to wear ill-fitting shoes. In most cases walking ability and the appearance of the toe are both greatly improved. Of course, as with any medical procedure, it is vital that you research your doctor carefully. Make sure you have someone who is qualified and experienced. Then you may decide to get bunion surgery San Francisco.




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