Most bunions are able to be treated without needing any form of surgery. However, when such non surgical treatments do not suffice, surgical operations are able to relieve the pain and help those affected to resume their normal activities. The decision on whether surgical operations are the best option for individuals is advised by an orthopedic surgeon. In considering bunion surgery San Francisco residents need to understand the entire procedure.

A bunion refers to an enlargement of bones or tissues that are found around a joint at the base of the big toe. The enlargement can also take place at the base of the little toe. The bunions come about whenever joints undergo stress over a long period of time. Most cases are reported in ladies. This is due to the fact that they put on tight, pointed and confined shoes. Other than that, the condition is genetic and may thus be inherited. People with arthritis are also more at risk.

Of the various types of bunion surgery available, the one chosen is dependent on the severity of the condition, how old the patient is, their activity level, their health and the condition of their connective tissues and bones. Apart from these, there are other factors that determine procedure used.

In instances where the bunions are mild, the surgery gets rid of enlarged portions of bones. After this, the muscles, tendons and ligaments surrounding the joints get realigned. For the moderate bunions, there is the cutting of bones and shifting them to their proper position. If in any case the bones need to be cut, this is dependent on the location and severity of the deformity.

If the bunions are severe, the surgical operation involves eradication of bone portions that are enlarged, the bones could get cut and realigned in addition to correction of tendons and ligaments. At certain times, the affected joints could be damaged such that they cannot get repaired as is the case when one is suffering from arthritis. This may call for reconstruction or replacement with artificial ones.

One reason that may make one consider undertaking surgery is when they are wearing spacious, comfortable shoes and they still experience foot pain. Surgical operations also become the best option when even after using various medications, chronic toe inflammation fails to subside. Other reasons include deformity of the toes, lack of ability to bend the big toe or when it drifts towards the small one.

Similar to other forms of surgery, there are bound to be complications at times. After the operation, one could suffer from stiffness, infections, delayed healing or numbness. Other complications that may be experienced include recurrence of the bunions, nerve damage and continued pain. If one experiences any such complications, the doctor has to be notified at once.

When considering bunion surgery San Francisco physicians give recovery guidelines to their patients. The length of recovery and the entire process depends on the administered anesthesia. For even quicker and more effective recovery, exercises and physical therapy are recommended.