When treatments is not able to reduce pain in the foot and foot due to bunion Advanced Foot Surgery Centre specialists may suggest surgery, referred to as a bunionectomy. This procedure permits surgeons to align bone structures of the feet, and also remove the bony bump that is located at the bottom of the big toe. The aim is to align the foot and ease the pain. A lot of people can go back to normal footwear without noticing significant pain.

Schedule an Appointment

Explore our specialists and get the attention you require.

An orthopedic surgeon can employ one or more methods for bunionectomy, for example, moving the bones of your foot, taking out the bunion, as well as cutting off or "releasing" tight soft tissue structures. The surgeon will make this choice by analyzing the foot's bone structure that is visible using the X-rays.

Bunionectomy is generally performed using local anesthesia, also known as an angioplasty, in addition to the option of sedation. The surgeon will make an incision at the side or top of the foot to reach the bunion and joint that runs from the bottom of the big toe.

During the procedure surgeon typically trims or eliminates the bony bump located on the opposite side of the joint is called the Big Toe. They might also loosen any soft tissues that are too tightly bonded and push bones out of their proper position which can cause inadjustment on the feet.

If the changes to the foot's bone structure are significant the surgeon can be able to cut bones to align them. They are held by pins, small screws or a plate. This is known as an osteotomy.

Once your surgeon has made corrections to the foot's alignment and closed the incision using stitches.

What to Expect After Surgery

You're released from the hospital the same day of the operation, wearing a comfortable cast that covers your ankle and foot. Your podiatrist prescribes painkillers for a period of one to two weeks to allow you to heal comfortably.

The follow-up appointments are planned for two and four weeks following surgery to check the progress of healing on the foot.

The doctor also supplies crutches to ensure you can walk around without putting any weight on your foot. The specific nature of the surgery the doctor carried out determines how long the cast as well as crutches will last. The majority of people need both for a minimum of four weeks following surgery. The doctor will take off the cast once the foot is healed enough to support the weight. This could take 4 weeks or more.

Medical Treatment for Bunions

Many people have found that the foot padding and shoe inserts alleviate swelling and bunion pain in the foot, thereby making moving more comfy. There are a variety of pads that are available over the counter and shoe inserts to choose from. Our orthopedic foot surgeons in Perth and podiatrists will recommend the appropriate one for your needs according to the size of your bunion as well as the degree of the change in your foot's bone structure.

Schedule an Appointment

Find our experts and receive the help you require.

For those with severe bunions, the podiatrists at our clinic can make a custom shoe insert that will help distribute the stress away from the joint that is affected alleviating discomfort. Additionally, medications can help to make walking more comfortable for those with bunions.

Over-the-Counter Padding

Many drugstores have a selection of bunion pads that come in various dimensions and shapes. They are available in a variety of kinds of materials, shapes, and sizes, such as gel and fabric. Some wrap around your toe while some utilize adhesives that adhere to the skin. This alleviates discomfort and pressure caused by the bunion's rubbing against the shoe, making walking more comfortable.

Orthotic Inserts

Orthotic inserts are inserted under the foot inside your shoes. Most often, they are comprised of foam or gel that conforms to the contours of your feet in certain areas while offering solid support in other places.

Orthotic inserts are a crucial element of treatments for bunions in Perth as they help distribute the body's weight more evenly over the joints and bones of the foot. By shifting the pressure away from swollen and painful areas the orthotic inserts are able to alleviate pain caused by metatarsalgia. It is the swelling of the foot's ball or a neuroma which is inflammation of the nerve that runs through the bone of your toes and feet.

Physicians from the Advanced Foot Surgery centre recommend orthotic inserts for those who are seeking non-surgical treatments for bunions. Our podiatrists can help you choose the best brand available over the counter or can make the shoe insert to precisely the dimensions and shape of the foot.

Custom orthotic inserts generally require between two and three weeks to create. When the inserts are finished then you visit your podiatrist for confirmation that they are sized correctly.

Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs

The doctor may prescribe non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs) to decrease swelling and ease discomfort in the foot as well as toes that are affected by bunion. NSAIDs can be taken orally.

Many of these drugs like naproxen and ibuprofen are available without prescription. If the medications you're taking aren't helping to alleviate the pain caused by your bunion, your doctor might suggest a prescription medication.

If your doctor suggests over-the-counter or prescription NSAIDs for you, he will advise you on the appropriate dosage and duration of treatment. These drugs can trigger side reactions, such as nausea and stomach ulcers. Therefore, long-term use should be monitored by a physician.