A bunion is a protrusion on the side of a big toe. This toe tends to lean in the direction of the smaller toes. The condition is usually treated non-surgically first. If these methods do not work, it may be time to get bunion surgery San Francisco.

Bunions are bony bumps of bone and/or tissue that have formed on the side of the toe. They are usually the result of a misalignment of bone and even additional bone growth. They usually occur on a big toe, but they can also appear on a small toe. They can turn red and be quite painful. They will tend to get worse with time if not treated.

This condition is found more often in women than in men. Heredity and genetics are major contributors for suffering this condition. If your family has a history of bunions, you are likely to eventually have them too. However, they can also be caused by certain foot injuries. They are not caused by wearing the wrong shoes. However, wearing shoes that do not fit properly can make them get worse or show up faster.

Most people will try non-surgical solutions for treatment. For some, just wearing wider shoes alleviates the problem. Others have found success with covering the area with a rubber pad. Some use anti-inflammatory medicines. Some get a shot of cortisone that seems to help. If these non-surgical solutions do not work, surgery might be the next step.

When the surgeon is first consulted, he will take your medical history. He will then examine the foot to examine its anatomy. X-rays will then be taken. The doctor can then evaluate whether an operation is needed.

This type of operation is referred to as a bunionectomy. It corrects the toe deformity and also should help to relieve pain. A regional anesthesia and sedative are usually administered. An incision is made along the side or top of the toe. Bone and/or tissue is then realigned properly. Severe cases may require reinforcement with screws, wires, or pins. It will all depend on your individual needs. The procedure usually takes around an hour and is done as an outpatient.

Recovery time varies depending on the severity of the case. It can fall between six weeks all the way up to six months. Stitches can be removed from just seven days up to twenty-one. If pins or screws were used, they are removed after three up to six weeks. You will need a walking cast or special shoe for a time up to eight weeks. You are required to stay off the feet for some time. Your normal activities can be resumed in about six or eight weeks. If your case was severe, you may be told not to put any weight on the foot for up to eight weeks. In these cases, expect a longer recovery.

The condition my come back after having the operation. However, this usually occurs if the patient continues to wear ill-fitting shoes. In most cases walking ability and the appearance of the toe are both greatly improved. Of course, as with any medical procedure, it is vital that you research your doctor carefully. Make sure you have someone who is qualified and experienced. Then you may decide to get bunion surgery San Francisco.