Treating bunions

By Gladys de Leon, DPM Foot & Ankle Specialists of Ohio

Bunions are a common and painful condition that affect patients of all ages. Thankfully, the surgical methodology and equipment to correct bunions has advanced over the years. We can now perform a minimally invasive technique known as a Minimal Incision Surgery (MIS) Bunionectomy.

The surgery uses four very small incisions and causes less trauma to the foot, the bone and the joint. That translates into a shorter recuperation time and less pain and swelling.

Both surgeries are still performed under sedation or general anesthesia in an operating room setting, not in the office.Patients can walk out of surgery and remain mobile in a supportive boot for two to three weeks with the minimally invasive technique, and about six weeks with traditional.

Bunions are usually more hereditary in nature, or if one has underlying inflammatory diseases or issues such as rheumatoid arthritis.

This is a condition that can be prevented if caught early, with custom orthotic shoe inserts to realign the foot mechanics.

Bunions can be very painful. Left untreated they can lead to other deformities such as hammertoes. Patients should know that there are options for treatment both conservatively and surgically, depending on extent of pain and derangement of the joint.

Foot & Ankle Specialists of Ohio is located at 325 Center Street in Chardon. Same-day and next-day appointments are available. You can schedule online or by calling 440-306-5359. The website is FasOhio.com.