Bunions are bony bumps that can cause significant pain and discomfort, often disrupting daily activities. If conservative treatments like orthotics or anti-inflammatory medications haven’t provided lasting relief, bunion surgery may be the best solution.
Contact the experts at Orthopedic Foot & Ankle Center in Greater Columbus to explore our comprehensive care options to help you get back on your feet!
Visiting an orthopedic surgeon doesn’t mean that surgery is necessary. Our orthopedic doctors always prefer to use non-surgical procedures to treat injuries.
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A bunion (medically known as hallux valgus) is a visible, often painful, bony bump that develops on the outside edge of your big toe joint. The condition occurs when the big toe shifts toward the smaller toes, leading to a misalignment in the joint. This shift can cause the joint to stick out, creating the characteristic bump.
Over time, bunions can worsen, leading to chronic bunion pain, swelling, and inflammation. The bony enlargement can make wearing shoes uncomfortable, especially if the bump rubs against footwear, causing irritation.
Several factors contribute to bunion formation. These include:
While bunions are most commonly found on the big toe joint, a similar condition known as a bunionette can form on the outside of the little toe joint.
Bunion surgery (also called a bunionectomy) is an outpatient procedure aimed at correcting the deformity, relieving pain, and restoring function to the affected foot. Surgery is typically recommended when conservative treatments like orthotics, physical therapy, and medication have failed to alleviate symptoms, or when the bunion significantly limits daily activities.
There are different techniques available for bunion correction, including minimally invasive bunion surgery. Your surgeon will choose the most appropriate approach based on the severity of your bunion, your foot structure, and your overall health. The primary goals of bunion reconstructive surgery are to:
The type of bunion surgery you need depends on the severity of your condition. After a thorough examination and imaging tests, your surgeon may recommend one of the following procedures:
Osteotomy is the most common procedure for bunion correction. During this surgery, your surgeon makes small incisions in the bone near the big toe joint. The bones are then realigned using screws or pins to hold them in place, correcting the abnormal angle. This procedure effectively restores the natural alignment of your toe joint while relieving pain and discomfort.
Exostectomy involves removing the bony bump without realigning the joint itself. This procedure is usually combined with an osteotomy to ensure the toe is properly repositioned. Exostectomy alone is less common and is typically reserved for cases where joint misalignment is minimal.
For patients with severe bunions, arthritis, or significant joint damage, great toe arthrodesis may be the best option. This procedure involves fusing the bones of the big toe joint to eliminate pain and stabilize the joint. Screws, plates, or other hardware are used to hold the bones in place as they heal. While this procedure limits motion in the big toe, it provides excellent long-term pain relief and stability.
The Lapidus bunionectomy is specifically designed for severe bunions that involve significant joint instability. This procedure corrects the bunion at the base of the first metatarsal by fusing it in the correct position. The Lapidus procedure addresses the root cause of severe bunions, making it an effective option for preventing recurrence.
Minimally invasive bunion surgery uses an osteotomy or bone cut to realign the bone and remove the bunion. This is done with small incisions and small screws to help keep the bone in place.
Bunion surgery is typically recommended when conservative treatments have not provided relief, and bunion pain is affecting your quality of life. You might be a candidate if you experience:
Consulting with a foot and ankle specialist is the best way to determine if bunion surgery is right for you. Your surgeon will evaluate your condition, review your medical history, and discuss the potential benefits and risks of the procedure.
Preparing for bunion surgery involves more than just understanding the procedure. Here are some steps you can take to ensure a smooth experience:
Scheduling your surgery at a convenient time allows you to focus on healing and avoid unnecessary stress during recovery.
Bunion surgery is typically performed in an outpatient setting. Here’s what you can expect during the procedure:
After surgery, most patients will need to wear a protective boot or shoe to avoid putting weight on the affected foot. Stitches are usually removed 2-3 weeks after the procedure, and follow-up visits with your podiatrist will monitor the healing process. Recovery time varies depending on the type of surgery performed but generally takes 6 to 12 weeks.
To ensure a successful recovery, carefully follow your surgeon’s post-operative instructions. This includes:
Your surgeon may also prescribe pain medications to help manage discomfort during the recovery period.
The primary benefits of bunion surgery include the following:
As with any surgical procedure, there are potential risks, including:
Although complications are rare, they can typically be managed effectively with prompt medical attention.
While bunion surgery is intended to provide long-term correction, bunions can recur in some cases. Factors such as poor footwear choices, joint instability, and genetic predisposition can contribute to recurrence. However, opting for advanced procedures like the Lapidus bunionectomy significantly reduces this risk by addressing the root cause of severe bunions.
If you’re struggling with bunion pain and live in the Greater Columbus, OH area, contact us at Orthopedic Foot & Ankle Center today to schedule an appointment. Our experts specialize in personalized treatment plans, including minimally invasive bunion surgery, to help relieve pain and restore your mobility.
Medically reviewed by Roberto A. Brandão, DPM
