Bunions are deformities that affect the toes. They are associated with a medical condition known as hallux valgus. This condition is characterized by an abnormally outwardly turned big toe. The bones of the big toe are subsequently oriented in an abnormal direction and subjected to excessive pressure when one puts on shoes. Treatment of this condition is mainly through conservative measures. If these measures fail then surgical correction is indicated. When planning to have bunion surgery San Francisco residents should ensure that they consult widely.
This condition is particularly common in persons that have improperly fitting shoes. Pointed shoes tend to squeeze the fit into unnatural positions. Excessive pressure is exerted on protruding parts leading to recurrent inflammation and healing. Eventually, bunions are formed. There is also a role for hereditary factors in a few cases.
If allowed to progress, these lesions become very painful and cause significant deformity. This is often the cause for those that are caused by arthritis. One of the non-surgical measures that can be undertaken is to change shoes to those that are properly fitting. The shoes that are chosen should conform to the shape of feet to avoid exerting excess pressure on prominent bony areas.
According to research many of the people who undergo the procedure respond positively. Only a small proportion may require more corrective procedures. The aims of surgical correction include pain reduction, realignment of joints and correction of any other deformities. The exact measures to be undertaken are determined by a number of factors that include the age, the general health status, severity and level of activity.
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.
Many hospitals and surgical centers consider this procedure to be an outpatient case. Patients are required to report a few hours before the appointed time. The first stage involves a complete evaluation by a member of the anesthesia team. It requires a local anesthesia although a general anesthesia may be used in selected cases. The procedure lasts for one hour and patients are allowed to go home after getting enough rest.
The time to recover from the surgery may vary from one patient to another. The duration depends on the soft tissue and the bones affected. In most cases, patients will recover after 6 weeks to 6 months. It takes about an entire year to attain complete healing. There are various precautions that are recommended for the patients. This are intended to reduce any risks and promote healing. The foot must not be exposed to water to prevent any damage on the stitches. Special shoes, walking casts, splints or wooden shoes may be necessary.
Although rare, there are a number of complications associated with bunion surgery San Francisco residents need to know even as they consider undergoing the same. Commonly, patients may suffer connective tissue contractures, swelling, nerve and blood vessel damage, infections and persistent pain. Many of these complications heal spontaneously but a few may require specialized treatment.
This condition is particularly common in persons that have improperly fitting shoes. Pointed shoes tend to squeeze the fit into unnatural positions. Excessive pressure is exerted on protruding parts leading to recurrent inflammation and healing. Eventually, bunions are formed. There is also a role for hereditary factors in a few cases.
If allowed to progress, these lesions become very painful and cause significant deformity. This is often the cause for those that are caused by arthritis. One of the non-surgical measures that can be undertaken is to change shoes to those that are properly fitting. The shoes that are chosen should conform to the shape of feet to avoid exerting excess pressure on prominent bony areas.
According to research many of the people who undergo the procedure respond positively. Only a small proportion may require more corrective procedures. The aims of surgical correction include pain reduction, realignment of joints and correction of any other deformities. The exact measures to be undertaken are determined by a number of factors that include the age, the general health status, severity and level of activity.
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.
Many hospitals and surgical centers consider this procedure to be an outpatient case. Patients are required to report a few hours before the appointed time. The first stage involves a complete evaluation by a member of the anesthesia team. It requires a local anesthesia although a general anesthesia may be used in selected cases. The procedure lasts for one hour and patients are allowed to go home after getting enough rest.
The time to recover from the surgery may vary from one patient to another. The duration depends on the soft tissue and the bones affected. In most cases, patients will recover after 6 weeks to 6 months. It takes about an entire year to attain complete healing. There are various precautions that are recommended for the patients. This are intended to reduce any risks and promote healing. The foot must not be exposed to water to prevent any damage on the stitches. Special shoes, walking casts, splints or wooden shoes may be necessary.
Although rare, there are a number of complications associated with bunion surgery San Francisco residents need to know even as they consider undergoing the same. Commonly, patients may suffer connective tissue contractures, swelling, nerve and blood vessel damage, infections and persistent pain. Many of these complications heal spontaneously but a few may require specialized treatment.
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