Bunion surgery can help with the pain, discomfort and deformity associated with bunions, so it can be worth it if non-surgical treatments haven’t been successful in treating the condition. Surgery involves realigning the bones to improve the alignment of the big toe and to reduce friction.
However before opting for surgery it’s important to understand the risks and potential complications involved, such as wound healing problems, or incomplete correction. With this in mind, it is best to seek advice from a health professional such as a podiatrist or orthopedic surgeon to determine if surgery is the best option.
Additionally, it is important to understand that full recovery from bunion surgery can take a long time and post-op physiotherapy may be necessary to maximise the chances of a successful outcome.
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What is the age for bunion surgery?
The age for bunion surgery depends on several factors, such as the severity of the bunion and any underlying medical conditions that may affect the person undergoing the surgery. Generally, bunion surgery can be undertaken in patients of any age, though typically those 18 and over are considered suitable candidates, as their bones are fully developed.
A patient’s general health and the type of bunion they have can also influence their candidacy, as some bunions are best treated with more conservative methods, such as using orthotics or padding. There is also an increased risk of complications and poorer outcome associated with bunion surgery in some elderly patients and those with diabetes, and as such these patients may require special consideration prior to undertaking surgery.
Ultimately, the best person to talk to regarding the age and qualifications for bunion surgery is an orthopedic surgeon, who can assess the individual’s circumstances and recommend the best course of treatment.
Should I have bunion surgery or not?
Ultimately, the decision whether to have bunion surgery or not is a personal one that should be made after a thorough discussion between you and your doctor. Surgery is only recommended when conservative treatments such as anti-inflammatory medications and physical therapy do not provide enough relief, or when a bunion is so severe it begins to interfere with daily activities.
Before making the decision to proceed with surgery, it is important to understand the potential risks and benefits, as well as the expected healing process.
If your doctor recommends having bunion surgery, the procedure typically entails shaving the bone and tendons connecting the big toe to the first metatarsal, as well as using metal screws to realign the bone.
The procedure may be done either as open surgery, or endoscopically, using tiny cameras and instruments. Recuperation time is usually around four to six weeks, depending on the severity of the case, and you can expect to wear a protective shoe or a surgical boot.
There are various possible risks associated with bunion surgery, such as infection, pain, and nerve damage. However, many people experience significant relief and improved mobility following the procedure.
It is important to speak with your doctor and follow the post-operative instructions carefully to ensure the best possible outcome.
What happens if you don’t remove a bunion?
If you don’t remove a bunion, it can become worse over time and the surrounding tissue may become increasingly painful and tender. Chronic bunions can cause the foot to shift inwards, which can lead to other problems such as hammertoe and pressure on the second, third and fourth toes.
This can cause corns and calluses, as well as potential joint damage and arthritis. The bunion can also limit the types of shoes that you are able to comfortably wear, leading to irritation and discomfort while walking.
If a bunion has become too severe, surgery may be the only way to remove it.
Why do people not have bunion surgery?
People may not have bunion surgery for a variety of reasons. People may not be aware of the potential benefits of bunion surgery, or they may not believe those benefits outweigh the risks. Cost is also a factor, as bunion surgery can be costly depending on the extent of the procedure and may not be covered by insurance.
People may also be worried about the potential pain and recovery involved. Other people may be apprehensive about the potential side effects, such as infection or scarring, or may feel that the surgery may not be a permanent solution.
Ultimately, everyone’s decision about bunion surgery should be made with the help of a specialist, who can help assess the severity of the bunion, discuss potential options and risks, and provide guidance on what the expected outcome of the procedure might be.
Can you live with bunions without surgery?
Yes, you can live with bunions without surgery, although it can be difficult. There are certain lifestyle changes and treatments that can help manage the symptoms associated with bunions and prevent them from getting worse.
These include wearing shoes that fit properly, cushioning the bunions with padding, using orthotics, performing exercises and stretches that strengthen feet muscles, using anti-inflammatory medications, applying hot or cold compresses, soaking your feet, and avoiding high-impact activities that may worsen symptoms.
Surgery may be needed in more serious cases of bunions or if pain and inflammation become severe, but this should be a last resort. Consulting a doctor is the best way to determine the best course of action for your particular situation.
Do bunions get worse if not treated?
Yes, if a bunion is not treated, it typically will get worse over time. This is because the underlying structure of the bone that forms the bunion continues to gradually shift, which causes the bunion to become more pronounced.
In some cases, the bunion can cause the big toe to cross over or under the other toes, which can lead to increasing levels of pain and deformity. Additional symptoms that can occur as the bunion worsens can include swelling, redness, and soreness around the bunion, changes to the skin of the area, and altered gait or posture due to the altered alignment of the foot.
If left untreated, a bunion can lead to increasing levels of pain and more issues with mobility, so it is important to consult a medical professional as soon as any symptoms appear.
How can I avoid bunion surgery?
One of the most important things you can do to avoid bunion surgery is to wear the right type of shoes. Shoes should be wide enough to accommodate the bunion, with a low heel and good arch support. Avoid wearing high heels or pointed-toe shoes, as this can aggravate your bunions.
It is important to have your feet measured by a shoe store or podiatrist to ensure that you purchase the right size shoes.
In addition to wearing the right type of shoes, other conservative measures that may help relieve bunion symptoms and avoid surgery include: modifying activities that are causing pain, wearing spacers to separate the first and second toes, using bunion splints or supports for pain relief and prevention, taking anti-inflammatory medications as prescribed by your doctor to reduce bunion inflammation and pain, applying ice to decrease inflammation and pain, and wearing custom-made orthotics to reduce foot stress and support the arch.
If these measures are unsuccessful, surgery may be recommended.
Is minimally invasive bunion surgery better than traditional?
Minimally invasive bunion surgery may be better than traditional bunion surgery in some ways. It usually takes less time to perform, with the surgery typically lasting 30 to 45 minutes, compared to two or three hours with traditional bunion surgery.
Recovery time is also typically shorter, with most patients able to walk pain-free in 1-2 weeks after minimally invasive bunion surgery compared to 4-6 weeks for traditional bunion surgery. Another advantage is that smaller incisions are made with minimally invasive bunion surgery, which may lead to less post-surgery discomfort and fewer complications such as infection.
However, minimally invasive bunion surgery may not always be the best option for everyone. It’s often only suitable for those with mild to moderate bunions, and for more severe cases, traditional bunion surgery may be the only option.
Also, not all surgeons are trained in minimally invasive bunion surgery, so you may need to find a specialist who can perform the procedure. Finally, there is a risk of recurrence with both minimally invasive and traditional bunion surgery.
The recurrence rate following minimally invasive bunion surgery is not as well studied as traditional bunion surgery, but most studies indicate that the risk of recurrence is similar between the two.
How long should you stay off your feet after bunion surgery?
It is recommended that after bunion surgery, you should stay off your feet for the first 48 hours. During the first 48 hours, you should keep your feet elevated as much as possible to decrease swelling and promote healing.
You should also not put any weight on the operated foot for 2-3 weeks for optimal healing. You should also elevate your foot above the level of your heart whenever possible during the first few weeks.
It is essential to keep your foot non-weight bearing and to avoid activities that require your full weight to be placed on the operated foot in order to increase the chance of a successful healing process.
Typically, light walking with the aid of crutches is permissible after two to three weeks, but you should check with your doctor to determine what is best for your individual situation.
How long will I have pain after bunion surgery?
The exact length of time you will experience pain following bunion surgery can vary from person to person. Generally, the most significant pain is felt immediately after the surgery, which should subside within 14 days, although the occasional twinge may last for a few weeks or months.
As the days pass, the pain should become a dull, occasional ache. Most people will find that the pain subsides completely after 6-12 weeks.
If the pain persists longer than expected, it is advised that you visit your doctor, as continuing pain can signal infection, swelling, or another problem with the surgery. To aid in the healing process, you should remain vigilant with your post-operative care, including cold therapy, keeping your foot elevated, and taking anti-inflammatory medications as prescribed in order to manage pain and swelling.
Can you walk immediately after bunion surgery?
Immediately after bunion surgery, you won’t be able to walk or put any weight on your foot. Depending on the procedure performed, you may be put in a protective boot or toes separator post-surgery. It is important to adhere to your doctor’s instructions in order to ensure proper healing.
Your foot may be swollen and painful, so it is important to take it slow, and use crutches or other mobility aids as needed. After 24 hours, you can begin using your foot and ankle joints, gently flexing, extending, and circling your foot and ankle.
Generally, you can begin walking without crutches or a protective boot anywhere from 7 to 10 days after the surgery. However, this may vary depending on how quickly you heal, and how much weight you are able to bear.
Is throbbing normal after bunion surgery?
Throbbing after bunion surgery is normal and is usually a sign that the body is healing. This can occur because of swelling or numbness in the area and can last for a few weeks. It is important to keep your feet elevated, wear comfortable shoes (if possible) and use ice packs to reduce swelling and discomfort.
Your doctor may recommend taking pain medication or anti-inflammatory medication to help with any pain and discomfort. Additionally, doing gentle exercises can help keep the area mobile, which can reduce any discomfort.
It is important to speak to your doctor if the throbbing persists after a few weeks or if it is accompanied by any other unusual symptoms.
Is a bunion operation worth it?
The answer to this question ultimately depends on your individual circumstances and the severity of your bunion. In general terms, a bunion operation can be a good option if the bunion is painful, interferes with your normal daily activities, and has not responded to less invasive treatments such as changes in footwear or bunion pads.
If the bunion is particularly severe, an operation can help to realign the bones in your foot and reduce the pressure of the bunion on the joint thereby reducing pain and allowing you to walk and exercise more comfortably.
Additionally, undergoing an operation can improve the aesthetic appearance of your foot and is often the only way of achieving lasting relief from your bunion pain.
On the other hand, a bunion operation can come with its own risks such as bleeding, swelling, nerve damage, and infection. It is also important to note that it is not always possible to completely eliminate a bunion with surgery, and the bunion can reoccur in the future.
Therefore, it is important to make an informed decision based on your individual circumstances after discussing with your doctor and understanding the potential risks and benefits involved. Ultimately, this is the best way to ensure that you make the most appropriate choice for your particular bunion and lifestyle.
Why is bunion surgery not recommended?
Bunion surgery is not recommended unless it is absolutely necessary as it is considered a major surgical procedure with a lengthy recovery period. The procedure involves cutting and reshaping the bones in the foot, which can be both painful and complicated.
While surgery can provide relief from the pain and discomfort associated with bunions, it does not necessarily prevent the bunion from returning, and there is risk for complications, such as infection and nerve and blood vessel damage.
If a bunion gets to the point where it is causing extreme pain or hindering mobility, then surgery may be necessary, but typically a physician would only recommend this as a last resort after trying other treatments, such as wearing orthotics or changing your shoes.
