Information About Bunion Surgery San Francisco Patients Will Find Helpful

Information About Bunion Surgery San Francisco Patients Will Find Helpful

by Jayne Rutledge

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 procedure is known as an "osteotomy" and it involves separating the metatarsal bones of the big toe and putting them back together in their correct location using surgical screws or staples. The bony bulge of the bunion is removed, the joint is given strength and the upper part of the foot is narrowed as a result. A post-operative, protective shoe is worn on the affected foot to promote healing.

Following surgery, the foot will be bandaged, swollen, and painful, but pain medications will be given and keeping the foot elevated helps reduce the swelling. The post-op shoe will need to be worn at all times, even when in bed. Stitches will be taken out after two weeks time, and it's important to exercise the toe starting right after the operation in order to prevent stiffness.

Wearing the post-op shoe for the first six weeks after the operation is typically required, after this time an open-toed sandal with adjustable straps can be worn instead. Regular footwear can be worn in another six to eight weeks, and once it's been three to six months since the procedure, the patient may once again engage in sporting activities.

Complications from the procedure include stiffness, toe sensitization, skin infection, blood clots, non-healing of the bone, surgical screw problems, and corn formation on the second toe caused by weight transfer, however these seldom occur. The majority of patients are pleased with the outcome.

Prior to deciding in favor of <A href="http://www.footanklesf.com">bunion surgery San Francisco</A> patients need to be aware that this procedure is one intended for those who are bothered by persistent pain that cannot be alleviated any other way. It isn't generally performed to simply prevent symptoms from worsening or for cosmetic reasons.



You can visit <a href="http://www.footanklesf.com">www.footanklesf.com</a> for more helpful information about Important Details About Bunion Surgery San Francisco Patients Need To Know.

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