Bunion Correction – Surgical Treatment

Bunion correction surgery is a treatment option for individuals experiencing foot pain and difficulty walking due to a bunion.

A bunion is a bony bump that forms at the base of the big toe, often caused by genetics, wearing tight shoes or arthritis. Over time, bunions can lead to foot deformities and interfere with daily activities.

During bunion correction surgery, the bone, ligaments and tendons in the foot are adjusted to properly align the big toe. The goal is to relieve pain, restore normal foot function, and prevent the bunion from worsening.

Common reasons for undergoing bunion correction include:

• Persistent foot pain that does not improve with non-surgical treatments.
• Difficulty walking or wearing shoes comfortably.
• A visibly enlarged bump on the side of the big toe.
• Toe misalignment that affects balance and mobility.

Preparation:

• Imaging tests such as X-rays are conducted to confirm the severity of the bunion.
• After an initial assessment with a foot and ankle specialist, the provider will create a personalized treatment plan based on the individual needs of the patient. Sometimes this can include multiple procedures to achieve overall correction.
• If surgery is identified to be the best course of action, the surgery date will be scheduled, and the patient provided with pre-op instructions that will need to be followed for the best outcome possible.
• Most of the procedures can be done in the outpatient setting, meaning you can go home the same day. On the day of surgery, the patient will arrive at the hospital, will have pre-op tests and preparation completed and anesthesia will be administered before surgery.
  
  

Surgical Procedure:

• For the minimally invasive procedure, small incisions are made on the side of the foot near the affected joint of the toe.
• For patients with more severe bunions or who are experiencing other underlying foot conditions, the best option could include fusion to relieve instability and pain. Your foot and ankle surgeon will evaluate each patient individually.
• During surgery, the misaligned bone is repositioned and secured with a combination of plates, screws or wires.
• Ligaments and tendons are adjusted to improve alignment, as needed.
• The incisions are closed with sutures or surgical tape.
  
  

Post-Surgery Recovery:

• Most patients go home the same day with a protective boot or splint.
• A structured rehabilitation program, including physical therapy, can help restore foot strength and flexibility.
• Individual recovery times vary based on the patient and the surgery type, but most patients return to normal activities within a few weeks to a few months.

• Pain relief: Reduces chronic foot pain and discomfort.
• Improved mobility: Restores balance and walking ability.
• Minimally invasive options: Advanced techniques result in smaller scars and quicker healing with a reduced risk of infection or complications and can reduce the risk of reoccurrence.
• Long-term foot health: Helps prevent future foot deformities and improves overall function.

Best candidates:

• Individuals with bunions that cause pain and limit daily activities.
• Patients who have not found long-term relief from physical therapy or custom orthotics.
• Active individuals who need better foot alignment for walking or sports.
  
  

Not ideal candidates:

• Patients with severe infections or poor circulation.
• Individuals with significant health conditions that increase surgical risks.

Take the first step toward pain relief and restored foot function by scheduling an appointment with Dr. Levy or a Riverside foot and ankle specialist. Our team is here to discuss your treatment options and help you get back on your feet.