A bunion is an often painful protrusion on the joint of the big toe which results when the angle of the toe is shifted inwards too much. The most common cause of this disorder is wearing tight-fitting shoes that place the toes in an abnormal position, leading to the misplacement of this joint which in turn can cause pain and make standing for long periods of time unbearable. There is an operation which can be effective, however it is advisable that before bunion surgery San Francisco patients learn what it entails.

A brace or splint to the toe joint early on may help the problem somewhat and slow does its progression, and corn pads can ease pain caused by pressure, but these measures don't normally produce the same results as the more permanent surgery. It can help to wear footwear with a wider toe box to more comfortably house the bunion, and arch supports can aid if flat feet are the problem.

Those bunions which are more severe can only be remedied by a surgical procedure. If a patient has not responded well to non-operative measures and is considerably afflicted with pain, surgery is indicated. The operation is performed while the patient is given a combination of local and general anesthetic, with more of the former used so less of the latter is needed. It is often done as an out-patient procedure, but sometimes an overnight stay is necessary.

The procedure is known as an "osteotomy" and it involves separating the metatarsal bones of the big toe and putting them back together in their correct location using surgical screws or staples. The bony bulge of the bunion is removed, the joint is given strength and the upper part of the foot is narrowed as a result. A post-operative, protective shoe is worn on the affected foot to promote healing.

Following surgery, the foot will be bandaged, swollen, and painful, but pain medications will be given and keeping the foot elevated helps reduce the swelling. The post-op shoe will need to be worn at all times, even when in bed. Stitches will be taken out after two weeks time, and it's important to exercise the toe starting right after the operation in order to prevent stiffness.

Wearing the post-op shoe for about six weeks is usually necessary, and after this time, an adjustable, open-toed sandal can be worn. Six to eight weeks later, one can again wear normal footwear, and when it has been three to six months after the procedure, involvement in sports should be safe.

Complications from the procedure include stiffness, toe sensitization, skin infection, blood clots, non-healing of the bone, surgical screw problems, and corn formation on the second toe caused by weight transfer, however these seldom occur. The majority of patients are pleased with the outcome.

Prior to deciding in favor of bunion surgery San Francisco patients need to be aware that this procedure is one intended for those who are bothered by persistent pain that cannot be alleviated any other way. It isn't generally performed to simply prevent symptoms from worsening or for cosmetic reasons.