Pointy-toed, high heels are often seen as a fashion statement but are a significant reason why more women than men experience bunions. According to Karl Schweitzer, MD, an orthopedic surgeon at Duke, shoes that are too tight, narrow, or high can cause the joint at the base of the big toe to reposition, resulting in a bony protruding bunion.
For some individuals, bunions are merely unattractive. However, for others, they can be painful. The skin may become red and swollen. Painful arthritis and other foot issues like bursitis and hammertoes can also develop.
Surgery for cosmetic reasons is not recommended by the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons and the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society. Bunion surgery should only be considered when discomfort affects walking comfortably or wearing normal-fitting shoes after trying nonsurgical methods for three to six months.
Dr. Schweitzer suggests changing to wider shoes, using padding or taping to reduce stress on the bunion, wearing spacers or guards, taking over-the-counter pain relievers, using shoe inserts, and icing the foot to alleviate symptoms.
If these methods do not improve symptoms adequately, surgery might be an option for relief. Dr. Schweitzer explains that there are many variables in selecting the right procedure: “People understandably get confused when they go on the Internet and see dozens of bunion procedures.”
During surgery performed by specialists like Dr. Schweitzer, various techniques may be used such as correcting abnormal angulation of the big toe or removing bone tissue. Complete recovery can take at least four months with patients not returning to regular shoes until six to eight weeks post-surgery.
Choosing a trustworthy surgeon is important due to potential complications during recovery: “This isn’t necessarily a simple procedure,” said Dr. Schweitzer. He emphasizes maintaining patient relationships through frequent follow-ups post-surgery.
Bunions may recur despite surgical efforts: “Bunion surgery tends to get a bad rap because a lot of bad surgeries are done for wrong reasons,” stated Dr. Schweitzer but assures that proper procedures lead to good outcomes with experienced hands.
