A bunion is a protuberance that forms on the outside of the big toe; it is a bony growth that is normally caused by shoes that do not fit properly although there are other possible causes such as arthritis or a genetic foot disorder. There are a number of ways to go about bunion removal in Hyde Park; the easiest and simplest is to wear shoes which are comfortable and fit properly and to avoid any more activity than is necessary. A foot doctor will also suggest orthotic inserts for your shoes or cushioned pads, both of which help to straighten the toe and reduce the pain that is associated with bunions. If these methods do not work then surgical intervention may be needed.
Before opting for surgical removal of the bunion, podiatrists will first have their patient try several other methods to eliminate the problem. Women in particular can find significant relief by avoiding high heeled shoes and both women and men can avoid tight or ill fitting shoe wear. The bunion will heal over time if pressure is relieved, wearing sandals or comfortable sneakers is recommended. Putting the foot in ice water, taking anti-inflammatory medications and wrapping the toe in a bandage or tape are all ways to reduce the painful symptoms while the bunion is healing.
If these solutions don’t help and the symptoms persist then the next step is to make an appointment with a foot doctor and discuss the different methods available for bunion removal in Hyde Park. The podiatrist often will suggest custom made orthotics which are shoe inserts made expressly for the patients problem, they are designed to reduce the pressure on the bunion by cushioning the big toe. As well as inserts there are orthotic shoes as well as night braces that tend to force the toe back into its proper position. If these orthotic solutions don’t work the solution will involve surgery.
If the bunion is rather small the podiatrist can cut away the inflamed tissue and protruding bone mass, forcing the toe back into its normal position; this surgery is known as a bunionectomy. If the condition is severe the doctor will perform an arthrodesis which involves the removal of all excess tissue and then fusing the joints of the toe which will prevent the reappearance of the bunion.
If surgery is the solution the patient will typically wear a foot cast which gives the site a chance to heal properly, this may be as long as two months.
There are a number of surgical and non-surgical methods of bunion removal in Hyde Park. If you are suffering pain caused by a bunion you are invited to contact Mitchell Foot & Ankle.
