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Smart Reasons to Consider Bunion Surgery

May 02, 2024
Bunions — those bony protrusions that form at the base of the big toe — can cause significant pain. When conservative therapies no longer provide effective relief, it may be time to consider surgical treatment. Here’s what you should know.

About one-third of Americans have bunions, which usually take years to develop. But teens can also struggle with this painful condition, and sometimes, babies are born with bunions.

At Metroplex Foot and Ankle, LLP, in Dallas, Garland, and Richardson, Texas, our team specializes in treating foot and ankle issues that can make life uncomfortable, including bunions.

Our specialists typically try non-surgical methods first to manage bunions. However, there are times when surgery is the wisest course of action. Here’s when we might recommend bunion surgery for you:

1. Long-term pain relief

One of the primary reasons people opt for bunion surgery is to attain long-lasting pain relief. Bunions can cause significant discomfort, especially when you’re wearing shoes or engaging in physical activities.

These knobby deformities can make anything from a leisurely stroll to an afternoon soccer game painful. Surgery corrects the underlying structural problem to eliminate your pain.

2. Improved mobility

Bunions can undermine your ability to move normally. By correcting the misalignment of the big toe joint through surgery, you can regain normal mobility and enjoy activities without the limitations imposed by bunions. You’ll also gain the overall health advantages of an active life.

3. Preventing further foot damage

Ignoring bunions can lead to worsening symptoms over time. Without intervention, bunions may progress, causing additional complications such as a hammertoe deformity, bursitis, or arthritis in the affected joint.

Surgery halts the progression of a bunion, corrects the deformity, and helps prevent further damage and potential complications down the road.

4. Preventing damage to other weight-bearing joints

Bunions can disrupt the foot’s natural mechanics, affecting how you distribute weight while standing and walking. Favoring the affected foot can produce a misaligned gait that can cause problems in other weight-bearing joints, such as the knees, hips, and spine.

Surgery is designed to correct the big toe joint deformity, restoring proper alignment and function to your foot. This leads to more efficient movement, improved balance, and a reduced risk of developing other joint-related issues.

5. Customized treatment options

Advancements in surgical techniques have made bunion surgery more customizable than ever before. Your Metroplex Foot and Ankle, LLP, specialist considers your options carefully before recommending a procedure.

Depending on the severity of your condition and individual needs, your surgeon recommends the most suitable approach, whether traditional bunionectomy, minimally invasive surgery, or joint preservation techniques.

This personalized approach ensures you receive the most effective treatment for your case.

6. Faster recovery with modern techniques

In the past, bunion surgery was often associated with long recovery times and significant postoperative discomfort. However, modern surgical techniques, such as minimally invasive procedures and advanced pain management protocols, have revolutionized the recovery process.

Our team offers bunion surgeries with shorter recovery times, less postoperative pain, and a quicker return to normal activities. You’ll receive full details regarding your pending surgery in advance, including what to expect as you heal.

7. Long-term benefits

While bunion surgery requires some upfront commitment and recovery time, the long-term benefits can outweigh the temporary inconvenience. By addressing the underlying structural issues causing the bunion, surgery can provide lasting relief and prevent the recurrence of symptoms in the future.

If you've been struggling with bunions and conservative treatments aren’t providing adequate relief, it may be time to consider bunion surgery. Schedule an evaluation at Metroplex Foot and Ankle, LLP, for advanced bunion care that may include surgery. Call the office today, or request a consultation online at your convenience.