Treating Your Bunion After Surgery

This Wednesday, October 8 is the 5th annual Catwalk on City Walk Fashion Show. It will be a fun-filled evening, but if you have just gotten bunion surgery you may be feeling a bit of foot pain. It’s important to take care of your bunion even after the surgery is over so you heal properly and don’t miss out on fun activities.

A bunion is a protrusion on your big toe. It can be painful and cause discomfort, especially when trying to wear shoes that may not allow room for the bump. There are different causes of bunions, ranging from genetics to the type of shoes you wear.

If you find yourself with a bump on your big toe, there are many treatment options. You may find that a simple change in footwear is all you need. For more stubborn bunions you may need to do physical therapy, stretches, or wear a custom orthotic. In severe cases, however, you might find that surgery will benefit you the most.

If all other treatments have failed and your pain is so severe that you can’t walk or go about your daily activities, you might be a prime candidate for bunion surgery. You can talk with your podiatrist about what type of surgery will be best for your unique case. Some of the most common types include osteotomy (realigning the bones), exostectomy (removing the bunion without realigning the bones), and arthrodesis (the problem is corrected with metal pins or plates).

After your surgery is completed, it’s crucial to follow all post-operative orders. You will most likely wear a cast and then a brace. You should wear roomy shoes that don’t cramp your toes. Your doctor may recommend an orthotic or physical therapy to strengthen the muscles in the foot and leg.

For more information about bunion care, call Dr. Marco Vargas at (888) 784-5335 to schedule an appointment at Foot & Ankle Associates in Sugar Land, TX.

Photo Credit: Marin via FreeDigitalPhotos.net