A bunion is a deformity of the foot that is attributable to a condition known as hallux valgus. Generally, most cases respond well to conservative therapies. In the event that these treatments are ineffective then surgical intervention is warranted. The main complaints of persons affected with the condition include pain, deformity and limitation in the normal function of the affected foot. When considering having bunion surgery San Francisco residents should do enough research on the procedure to determine whether or not they really need to have it.
Bunions arise when individuals wear shoes that are too tight for them for a very long time. Shoes that are excessively narrow and pointed are one of the commonest predisposing factors because they force the feet to assume inappropriate positions. Bunions may also be inherited from one person to another. Heredity accounts for a small number of the cases.
A bunion becomes painful over time if it is neglected. The discomfort caused by this condition can be eliminated without surgery. Those that are less painful are easy to manage with nonsurgical treatments. This can be done by ensuring the shoes worn are of the correct size and fit properly. If the condition occurs due to arthritis, medications can be prescribed to manage it.
Studies have found that a majority of patients who undergo the surgical procedure get the expected results. There are many types of surgical procedures that are used by specialized orthopaedic surgeons to manage the condition. These are designed to relieve pain, to realign the joints and to correct deformity. The type of surgical procedure to be done is dependent on a number of factors that include, among others, level of activity, extent of damage and general health status of the patient.
A patient has to be examined by an orthopaedic surgeon prior to the surgery. A medical history helps the surgeon to gather information about medical conditions that may affect the outcome of the procedure. A physical examination helps in the assessment of extent of damage to the soft tissues and misalignment of joints. The exam also helps check for the presence of corns and hammertoes. X-rays provide detailed information about the extent of the deformity and damage in the toe joint.
The surgical operation is minor and is typically done on an outpatient basis. Local anesthesia is usually used except in very special circumstances, where general anesthesia is used. The patient has to be seen by an anesthetist to decide whether or not they are fit to undergo the procedure. The patient should report early to the facility for the assessment.
The recovery period varies depending on the bone affected and the amount of soft tissue involved. The usual time required for recovery is between 6 and 24 weeks. Complete recovery may take up to one year. When taking a bath or showering, one must ensure that the foot is covered properly so that the stitches are kept dry. Walking casts, wooden shoes and splints are sometimes used. It is important to avoid putting too much weight on the foot.
There are several complications associated bunion surgery San Francisco residents need to know. They include nerve damage, recurrence of the bunions, degenerative joint disease, persistent pain and swelling and infection in the bone or soft tissue. These complications are treatable. However, they affect the time taken to achieve full recovery. In most cases, the surgeon explains the various options that can be used to treat the complications.
Bunions arise when individuals wear shoes that are too tight for them for a very long time. Shoes that are excessively narrow and pointed are one of the commonest predisposing factors because they force the feet to assume inappropriate positions. Bunions may also be inherited from one person to another. Heredity accounts for a small number of the cases.
A bunion becomes painful over time if it is neglected. The discomfort caused by this condition can be eliminated without surgery. Those that are less painful are easy to manage with nonsurgical treatments. This can be done by ensuring the shoes worn are of the correct size and fit properly. If the condition occurs due to arthritis, medications can be prescribed to manage it.
Studies have found that a majority of patients who undergo the surgical procedure get the expected results. There are many types of surgical procedures that are used by specialized orthopaedic surgeons to manage the condition. These are designed to relieve pain, to realign the joints and to correct deformity. The type of surgical procedure to be done is dependent on a number of factors that include, among others, level of activity, extent of damage and general health status of the patient.
A patient has to be examined by an orthopaedic surgeon prior to the surgery. A medical history helps the surgeon to gather information about medical conditions that may affect the outcome of the procedure. A physical examination helps in the assessment of extent of damage to the soft tissues and misalignment of joints. The exam also helps check for the presence of corns and hammertoes. X-rays provide detailed information about the extent of the deformity and damage in the toe joint.
The surgical operation is minor and is typically done on an outpatient basis. Local anesthesia is usually used except in very special circumstances, where general anesthesia is used. The patient has to be seen by an anesthetist to decide whether or not they are fit to undergo the procedure. The patient should report early to the facility for the assessment.
The recovery period varies depending on the bone affected and the amount of soft tissue involved. The usual time required for recovery is between 6 and 24 weeks. Complete recovery may take up to one year. When taking a bath or showering, one must ensure that the foot is covered properly so that the stitches are kept dry. Walking casts, wooden shoes and splints are sometimes used. It is important to avoid putting too much weight on the foot.
There are several complications associated bunion surgery San Francisco residents need to know. They include nerve damage, recurrence of the bunions, degenerative joint disease, persistent pain and swelling and infection in the bone or soft tissue. These complications are treatable. However, they affect the time taken to achieve full recovery. In most cases, the surgeon explains the various options that can be used to treat the complications.
About the Author:
Read more about The Main Principles Of Bunion Surgery San Francisco Residents Should Know visiting our website.