Hello, my name is Gregory. When I was a young lad, I had to enter the health care world in an unexpected way. I developed a serious disease out of the blue that took doctors by surprise. I went through so many different testing procedures before my doctors could diagnose the rare disease. Everyone around me reeled as they tried to understand the purpose and process of the diagnostic tests. I hope to help others understand these important tests better through this website. Please come by often to learn all you need to know about medical diagnostics and working closely with health care professionals.
Talking About Diagnostic Tests For Medical Care
Everything You Need to Know Before Undergoing Bunion Surgery
Nanja Bongers
Sometimes, a bony bump forms at the base of your big toe. This bump is known as a bunion. It forms when some bones on your foot move out of place, pulling the big toe towards the other toes while the joint sticks out. If you look at the skin on the bunion, it looks sore and red, making it even harder to wear tight shoes. In such a case, you need bunion surgery.
What Causes Bunions?
Although the causes of bunions are unclear, scientists link them to lifestyle and inherited factors. The main causes of the condition include:
- Inflammatory diseases, such as arthritis
- Genetic syndromes, such as chitayat syndrome
- Wearing tight shoes for a long time
- Foot injuries
- Loose joints and tendons
Do You Need Bunion Surgery?
Bunions are among the most common foot disorders in the United States. It is estimated that about 60% of older adults in the US have a foot disorder that meaningfully hampers their ability to move around.
Sometimes, a bunion can be painless and doesn't require surgery. In such a case, you may try other remedies, such as:
- Using ice packs
- Using anti-inflammatory drugs
- Wearing wide shoes
- Using bunion pads
- Avoiding sports
However, all these treatments can't correct bunions permanently. As a result, you may consider surgery.
Bunion surgery is recommended if you notice any of the following symptoms:
- Severe foot pain
- A big bump that makes it hard for you to wear shoes
- Decreased movement due to the bunion
How is Bunion Surgery Performed?
Before recommending surgery, the doctor may first advise you always to wear well-fitting shoes. You may also be advised to use splints and special shoe inserts to reposition the big toe. If your bunion is caused by arthritis, you may need to take drugs to help reduce inflammation, swelling, and pain.
If all the above treatments don't help, your doctor may recommend surgery. The principal goal of surgery is to correct the deformity and relieve pain. The surgical procedure performed depends on various factors, such as the condition of the bones and the severity of the bunion.
Typically, bunions take three main types:
- Mild Bunion- The doctor removes the enlarged portions of your foot and realigns the tendons, muscles, and ligaments.
- Moderate Bunion- The doctor may cut the bones and shift them to their right position.
- Severe Bunion- The enlarged portion is removed while the bone is cut and realigned to its proper position.
Conclusion
You may consider bunion surgery if you are experiencing severe foot pain that significantly affects your walking. The surgery relieves pain and pointedly increases your level of physical activity and self-confidence.
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