The Importance of Early Hammertoe Treatment
You don’t need to wait until your hammertoe gets worse before reaching out for help. The sooner you get treatment, the better! Read on to learn three reasons early hammertoe treatment is so important.
Do Bunions Require Surgery?
Did you know that about one in three people over the age of 65 has a bunion? If you’re experiencing this common foot condition, you might wonder whether surgery is your only option. Fortunately, bunions don’t always require surgery, and the best way to know for sure is with a thorough evaluation at Manhattan Podiatry Associates, PC. With convenient offices in Midtown and Downtown Manhattan, our board-certified podiatrists provide expert care tailored to your specific needs.
What is a Bunion?
A bunion forms when the bones in the front of your foot shift out of alignment, causing your big toe to lean toward the second toe. This misalignment creates a painful, swollen bony bump on the side of your foot, often aggravated by tight shoes. If the bump affects your pinky toe, it’s called a bunionette.
Over time, bunions can make walking and daily activities uncomfortable. Friction from your shoes can lead to additional issues like calluses, corns, or blisters. While you might suspect a bunion based on symptoms, a physical exam and imaging tests at our office will confirm the diagnosis.
Do All Bunions Require Surgery?
The good news is that not all bunions need surgery. Many people manage their symptoms with nonsurgical treatments, especially in the early stages. If your bunion is causing significant pain, interfering with daily life, or worsening despite conservative care, our podiatrists will discuss surgical options with you.
Nonsurgical Bunion Treatments
At Manhattan Podiatry Associates, PC, surgery is usually the last resort. We offer several effective nonsurgical treatments, including:
- Wearing shoes with a wide toe box to reduce pressure on the bunion
- Avoiding high heels and narrow footwear
- Custom orthotics to realign the foot and prevent further bunion progression
- Padding and taping to minimize discomfort
- Cold compresses and anti-inflammatory medications to reduce swelling and pain
Our team often recommends a combination of treatments for optimal relief. If custom orthotics are part of your plan, we can fit you with a pair designed specifically for your foot structure.
When to Consider Bunion Surgery
If nonsurgical treatments aren’t providing relief and your bunion continues to cause pain or limit your mobility, surgery may be necessary. You may be a good candidate for bunion surgery if you:
- Experience severe pain and reduced toe mobility
- Have difficulty walking comfortably, even in proper footwear
- Suffer from a significant toe deformity
- Are in good overall health and cleared for surgery
Ultimately, when the benefits of surgery outweigh the drawbacks, it’s time to consider it as a solution.
What to Expect from Bunion Surgery
Bunion surgery, or bunionectomy, is designed to realign the bones, tendons, and ligaments of your foot to correct the deformity. There are several types of bunion surgery, including:
- Osteotomy (realignment of the bone)
- Exostectomy (removal of the bony bump)
- Arthrodesis (fusion of bones with screws)
The type of surgery that’s best for you depends on the severity of your bunion and any other foot conditions, such as arthritis. Our expert podiatry team will recommend the best procedure to alleviate your pain and restore foot function.
Post-Surgery Recovery
Recovery from bunion surgery can take several weeks to a few months, depending on the procedure. You may need to wear a special boot or shoe to protect your foot during healing. Physical therapy is often recommended to regain strength and flexibility. By following your post-surgery care plan, you can ensure the best possible recovery and long-term success.
The Bottom Line
So, do all bunions require surgery? No—most bunions can be managed with nonsurgical treatments. However, if bunions are affecting your quality of life, surgery may offer the best path to long-term relief.
If you're ready to explore your treatment options, whether nonsurgical or surgical, schedule an appointment with Manhattan Podiatry Associates, PC today. With locations in Midtown and Downtown Manhattan, we’re here to provide expert care tailored to your needs. Call us or use our online booking tool to get started.
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