Bunionectomy 101

A bunion is an enlargement of the joint of the big toe which is usually caused by inflammation. This biggest joint of the foot could become inflamed and painful because of poorly fitting footwear (usually narrow and tight fitting footwear) resulting to a pronation of the foot.

As the foot becomes disfigured, a painful and hard lump develops at the side of this inflamed joint; the big toe may also move towards the second toe as a result of this growth. This painful growth that may resemble a spur is called a bunion. The most effective way to remove a bunion growth and to prevent it from developing and disfiguring the foot all the more is bunionectomy. This surgical removal of the bunion is very important to regain a person's range of mobility since a bunion causes pain when walking, running and may even hurt when standing. Bunionectomy is the most chosen way to remove bunions that can effectively return a person's gait as well.

A bunionectomy is done in a sterile outpatient clinic or in a doctor's office. This surgical procedure involves excision of the entire bunion and deciding whether bone repositioning is needed. The procedure begins with a local anesthesia or an ankle block applied, the bunion is removed and any ligaments or bones repaired to restore the alignment of the foot. Bunionectomy precedes bone repair if there is diagnosed massive deformity of the big toe bones. Some bunions may grow to the extent of damaging the bones of the feet and destroying the entire big toe joint making joint replacement a necessity.

After the bunionectomy, the surgeon sutures the site and places sterile bandages on the area. Post operative care is necessary to be able to recover early. Initially, there will be swelling and pain on the operative site. The doctor will prescribe anti inflammatory medications to control the pain, swelling and redness that may occur. Support the foot without bearing weight on it or applying any pressure to be able to heal properly. A special shoe or a cast may be worn on the area after the bunionectomy as well. Constant follow up is needed to asses healing and any complications of the surgery. Any untoward after effects must be reported like high fever, chills, severe pain on the surgical site or pus oozing from the site as well. The dressing should be kept clean and dry and never take the dressing off unless recommended by your doctor.

Bunionectomy is not the end of bunion removal. After the surgery and the wound have completely healed, a person must undergo physical therapy to slowly bring back the movement and gait that he had before. A physical therapist can help you with the proper exercises and strength training routines that you can do to achieve foot health.

Bunionectomy is proven to be the ideal bunion removal method with a success rate of 90% as compared to creams, soaks and products to improve your gait and movement. This is why many people who suffer from bunions choose bunionectomy rather than suffering a lifetime of painful movement.