Bunions

Bunions are a common problem, and can cause significant disability.  A bunion is an enlargement of bone near the big toe joint (Metatarsophalangeal Joint).  The bone protrudes, and can become painful.  The skin over it may be red and tender. This can be acquired through time or it can be congenital (you got it from your family)Wearing any type of shoe may be painful. This big toe joint moves with every step you take. The bigger your bunion gets, the more it hurts to walk. Bursitis may set in. Your big toe may angle towards your second toe, or even move all the way under or over it. The skin on the bottom of your foot may become thicker and painful.Pressure from your big toe may force your second toe out of alignment, sometimes causing it to overlap your third toe. If your bunion gets too severe, it may cause be difficulty in walking. Your pain may become chronic and you may develop arthritis.Some bunions can be treated conservatively with wider & softer shoes, pads to relieve the pressure and/or medications. If this does not help then surgical treatment may be indicated.

Bunion surgery, or bunionectomy, realigns the bone, ligaments, tendons and nerves so your big toe can be brought back to its correct position and the bump on the inside of the joint removed. Most bunion surgeries are performed on a same-day basis (no hospital stays).  Typically, a general anesthesia is used.  Recovery time is usually 6-8 weeks, depending on the severity of the bunion, and the procedure used to correct it.   After surgery,  some degree of swelling and stiffness may be present for several months.