When bunions reach an advanced state, they can cause significant discomfort. Dr. Richard Norman and our team at Coastal Podiatry in Pismo Beach, California, provide care for patients suffering from bunions, including surgical options when necessary.
When is Bunion Surgery Recommended?
Bunion surgery, also known as bunionectomy, is typically recommended when more conservative treatments have failed to relieve pain or preserve the foot’s mechanics. You may be a candidate for surgery if you experience:
- Persistent Pain: Chronic pain that interferes with daily activities, including walking or wearing shoes.
- Severe Deformity: A deformity that affects the alignment of your other toes and foot structure.
- Limited Mobility: Difficulty moving your foot or toes due to the bunion.
What Does Bunion Surgery Involve?
Bunion surgery aims to correct the alignment of the big toe. The procedure commonly consists of the following steps:
- Anesthesia: The surgery is typically performed under local anesthesia, which numbs the foot.
- Incision: Dr. Norman will make an incision near the bunion to access the affected joint. In modern bunionectomies, the incision can be very small.
- Realignment: The procedure may involve shaving the bony prominence of the bunion, realigning the bones of the big toe, and possibly tightening the surrounding ligaments and tendons.
- Fixation: In some cases, screws, pins, or plates may be used to stabilize the bones in their new position.
- Closure: The incision is then closed with sutures, and a dressing is applied to protect the surgical site.
Post-Surgery Care
After bunion surgery, proper post-operative care is essential for a successful recovery. The staff at Coastal Podiatry in Pismo Beach will guide you through the following:
- Rest and Elevation: It’s important to rest your foot and keep it elevated to reduce swelling.
- Pain Management: This may include prescribed medications or over-the-counter pain relievers.
- Wound Care: You will receive instructions on how to keep your surgical site clean and dry.
- Follow-Up Appointments: Regular follow-up visits will be scheduled to monitor your healing progress and remove sutures.
- Physical Therapy: Once cleared by Dr. Norman, physical therapy may be recommended to help restore foot strength and flexion.
- Gradual Return to Activity: You will be advised on the rate at which you can return to normal activities, including walking and wearing regular shoes.
Partner with a Trusted Provider of Bunion Surgery
Dr. Richard Norman at Coastal Podiatry will work closely with you to determine the best treatment plan, whether that involves conservative measures or surgical intervention. If you need help with a bunion, call our Pismo Beach, California, office at (805) 773-3668.