A bunion (hallux valgus) is a first or second toe deformity that results in the big toe pointing towards the outside of the foot. They are caused by several factors, including inflammatory rheumatism or other foot diseases (flat feet, hollow feet); nevertheless, hereditary factors seem to be the main cause.

Women are more likely than men to develop bunions. High heels (over 4 cm) or narrow shoes in the rearfoot area are aggravating factors.

Orthopedic surgery of this type is not recommended for aesthetic purposes. If bunions are not painful and do not interfere with shoes, it is better not to have surgery. You must keep in mind that each person needs a specific type of shoe according to her/his own characteristics. It is useless to try to fit a big foot in a narrow shoe.

Benefits

Orthopedic surgery for bunions is advisable in case of pain or when the bunion interferes with normal walking.

Procedure Details

There are over 200 surgical treatments for bunions. The surgeon will evaluate your toe deformity, age and causes to choose the best option.

Percutaneous surgery is an innovative technique. Even though it requires more tests, the results are promising. This type of orthopedic surgery consists in opening small incisions to get rid of the lump of bone. It is an outpatient procedure (the patient does not need to be admitted to a hospital) performed under local anesthetic.

Other non-surgical treatments are also useful with bunions. In some cases, all it takes is wearing customized orthopedic inner soles.

Post Operative Care

You will need to remain at the hospital for 24 hours.