Choosing bunion surgery
Most people tend to obtain relief from this pain by opting for shoes that have a larger toe, box. Some people may also prefer to relieve the pain using protective pads to cushion bunions, and this helps in relieving the pain. Those who feel pain after these simple remedies may prefer a treatment technique called bunion surgery.
These scenarios may make you consider going for surgery
1. The pain prevents you from finishing your everyday activities.
2. You cannot walk for a short distance without having too much foot pain.
3. If your foot remains swollen even after taking medicines and getting plenty of rest.
4. Bending or straightening the big toe is a problem.
Preparing for bunion surgery
Before the surgery, you have to undergo various medical tests; this is to check your general health. The doctor will take an x-ray of your lungs; he will also perform an electrocardiogram to check the function of your heart. Blood and urine test will also be done to check if there are any underlying illnesses.
You may be required to stop medications a few days before your surgery, especially if the medications involve aspirin and other blood-thinning drugs.
Your doctor will tell you how long you should fast before your surgery; you should, therefore, make sure that you follow all the directions of your doctor to avoid complications during the procedure.
This is normally an outpatient surgery; this means that you will be able to go home a few hours after surgery.
Bunion surgery procedure
During this procedure, most people do not need general anesthesia; instead, they will get a local anesthetic known as ankle block. This allows you to be awake while the procedure is going on, but you will not be able to feel any pain.
Once you are numb, the bunion will be removed, and necessary repair will be made, some of the common types of this procedure are known as osteotomy, arthrodesis, and exostectomy.
1. Osteotomy: This procedure involves the cutting of the big toe joint and realigning it to a normal position.
2. Exostectomy: Removal of bunion from the joint without aligning.
3. Arthrodesis: Using screws or metal plates to replace the damaged joint.
The surgeon will then bandage your foot after the surgery then you will be taken to the recovery room. While in this room, the nurses will closely monitor your blood pressure and heart rate.
Recovering from the surgery
You need up to eight weeks to fully recover from this surgery. However, some people may take an average of six months.
You will have to wear surgical boots for the first two weeks filling the surgery; this will help in protecting your foot. You must ensure that you protect your stitches from getting wet.
After the bandage is removed, you will put on a brace to help in supporting your feet as you heal. While healing, you will need to use crutches because bearing the weight might be very difficult.
After this procedure, your feet will be swollen for sometimes. You have to wear shoes that have ample room; this will help in minimizing the pain.
Ladies should avoid wearing high heels for at least seven months.
This is a highly successful procedure. Talk to your doctor about the measures you have to take to make sure your foot heals fast.
