Bunions
A bunion is a lump that appears at the base of a big toe at the joint. A bunion forms when the big toe compresses against the second toe whereby the joint of the big toe grows larger. The foot bone distends or sticks out and the skin on the foot may become reddened and painful. Podiatry bunions may also appear on little toes and on the sides of the joint at the base of the little toe and these are referred to as Tailor's bunionettes.
What causes a bunion?
- Pressure and chafing of the toes and feet in footwear
- Badly fitting footwear
- It is hereditary, bunions run in the family
- Flexible joints, such as children's joints
- Diseases, such as arthritis
Why are bunions painful and what happens if they are not treated?
- There will be pain and swelling in and over the distending or sticking out joint
- There will be pain where the big toe and second toe move closer together
- The pain and swelling over the big toe joint is worsened by the pressure from shoes
- The skin on the foot and the toes will become reddened and painful
- If untreated with bunions surgery, the foot will continue to distend
How can bunions be treated?
- Pads and orthotics give temporary relief with the discomfort of bunions
- Placing ice packs over the foot can give temporary relief with discomfort of bunions
- For a long term solution, bunions surgery is recommended
What happens during bunion surgery?
- During bunion surgery (hallux valgus correction) the bunion will be removed by making an incision in the foot and straightening or repositioning the bones within the toe
- The procedure will be under local or general anaesthetic within our chosen Hospital Theatre
- The procedure will involve day surgery
What happens after bunion surgery?
- The toes and/or feet normally take 4-6 weeks to heal, following the correct wound-care advice.
- There will be 2-3 post-operative visits required. The first visit is normally 10-14 days post-procedure with Mr Masucci. The second visit will be 4 weeks post-procedure. Depending on recovery, one further appointment may be required 8-12 weeks after the procedure.
Will there be any post-operative infection?
- Infection immediately following the procedure is unlikely.
- On rare occasions, (mostly if wound-care advice is not followed) an infection may occur usually between 1-2 weeks following the procedure.
Will the bunion ever recur?
- If the post-operative advice is not followed properly, there may be a recurrence of the deformity.
- There may be a recurrence of the deformity due to tightly footing footwear being worn after the operation and in the longer term.
Can I claim on my health insurance?
- Masucci Podiatry is recognised by all the major health insurers. Whilst we will always answer your questions to the best of our ability, clients should be aware of the terms of their health insurance policy before coming to the first appointment with us.
- Contact us for the relevant health insurance codes.
