Not only do bunions run in the family, they are more likely to affect women because of the types of shoes they wear. Just ask some famous women who are known for sporting the high heels: Amal Clooney, Victoria Beckham, and Jennifer Lopez. These celebrities have been spotted with the big toe joint deformity and as with everyone else, need to take care of them.
The usual treatment options for small or newly forming bunions include:
- Bunion pads to cushion the bump from irritation in shoes,
- Splints to keep the big toe forward instead of turned in toward the other toes,
- Changing to shoes without high heels and with a roomier toe box,
- Orthotic inserts to relieve pressure on the big toe joint, AND
- Cortisone injections for pain relief.
However, for some, bunions can just keep getting worse, with a bony spur developing to the point where it’s difficult to find shoes that will fit properly. The symptoms associated with the deformity can be debilitating, to the point of not being able to walk without pain. It can even lead to other problems with the feet as the deformity causes other problems like corns and calluses, and hammertoes.
When bunions get in the way of your living your life, our podiatrist may turn the conversation toward bunion surgery. Here’s what you should know:
- Bunion surgery is usually a last resort after all other options have been explored.
- It is usually performed as an outpatient procedure.
- The bunion can be surgically corrected by removing bony spurs or by cutting and realigning the big toe joint.
- Other procedures may be required, depending on the extent of the bunion problem. If the bunion is due to arthritis or other joint problem, screws or metal plates may be needed to replace the joint.
- It takes many weeks to recover. Rest is important so the foot should not bear weight. Using crutches and wearing a boot or cast is necessary for protection. There will probably be swelling for a few weeks.
- The time it takes to heal properly will depend on the procedure and how well you adhere to rehabilitation steps (such as physical therapy).
- This is not necessarily a one-time fix. Bunions can recur, especially if you go back to old habits that made it worse in the first place.
If bunions have affected your lifestyle, and have been a persistent problem for you, consult with our board-certified podiatrist, Dr. Brad Toll at Crofton Podiatry. Make an appointment by calling (410) 721-4505 to receive a thorough assessment to see if surgery is the answer. Our friendly staff is ready to assist you at our Crofton, MD office, which also serves the surrounding areas of Gambrills, Odenton, and Bowie.