Important Information About Bunion Surgery San Francisco Residents Need To Know

By Amanda Baird


A bunion is a medical condition of the feet caused by hallux valgus. This condition occurs when the big toe turns outward. The bone joining the big toe becomes prominent on the inner edge of the foot. Most cases are treated without the use surgical methods. Surgery helps to eliminate symptoms of pain, correct deformities of the feet and enhance the ability of individuals to carry out their daily activities. Before undergoing bunion surgery San Francisco residents are highly encouraged to consult experienced surgeons.

Bunions arise when individuals wear shoes that are too tight for them for a very long time. Narrow and pointed shoes are known to squeeze toes into inappropriate positions. Bunions may also be inherited from one person to another. Heredity accounts for a small number of the cases.

Bunions become painful over time if they are allowed to progress. It is possible to manage the condition without surgery. Generally, bunions that are not painful do not require any surgical procedure. They can be successfully managed by switching to proper fitting shoes. Individuals are encouraged to buy shoes that conform to the shape of their feet. Bunions caused by arthritis can be managed using medications to reduce pain swelling.

Research shows that most individuals are able to recover completely after the surgery. There are numerous options available for orthopaedic surgeons to use in the treatment of bunions. They effectively relieve pain, realign joints and correct deformities. The choice is made depending on factors such as activity level, severity, general health, age and the condition of the bones and connective tissues.

Physicians usually refer individuals to an orthopaedic surgeon for an evaluation. The evaluation has three main components. X-rays are done to find out the extent of the effects of the bunions on the joints. A medical examinations aims to reveal conditions that affect the effectiveness of this treatment. A physical examination is done to identify foot deformities, misalignment and the degree of soft tissue damage.

This procedure is performed on an outpatient basis. It is important to arrive at the surgical center or hospital early enough. After admission, the patient is evaluated by an anesthesiologist. Most bunion surgeries are done under ankle block anesthesia. Spinal or general anesthesia is used occasionally. The surgery lasts for about one hour after which the patient is taken to the recovery room.

The time taken to recover varies from one person to another. It depends on the soft tissue and the type of bones involved. Most people recover after 6 weeks to 6 months. Patients require a period of one year to heal completely. There are certain measures that can be taken to minimize risks and promote the healing process. The foot must be covered when bathing or showering to keep the stitches intact. Wooden shoes, walking casts, splints or special shoes may be used. Too much weight should not be exerted on the affected foot.

There a number of complications related to bunion surgery San Francisco residents need to be aware of. These include recurrence of bunions, nerve damage, degenerative joint disorders, swelling, continued pain and infections in the bones and connective tissues. Luckily, these complications can be treated easily. However, they prolong the time taken to recover completely. The surgeon provides the treatment options available for these complications.




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