Advancements in Bunion Surgery

If you are dealing with bunions and non-surgical treatment methods have not provided lasting relief from the pain and inflammation, surgery could be the solution. Advancements in bunion surgery make it possible to correct the root cause, as well as resolve foot pain and other symptoms. Dr. Myers, the experienced podiatrist at Sellwood Podiatry in Southeast Portland, OR, treats bunions through both surgical and non-surgical methods. 

How Bunions Develop

Bunions are bony protrusions or bumps that develop on the side of the foot just below the big toe. They are often the result of a dislocated joint called the metatarsophalangeal toe joint, which is located where the bones meet at the base of the big toe. Dislocation can occur due to an injury, a structural deformity, or from regularly wearing narrow or tight-fitting shoes. 

When the metatarsophalangeal toe joint is out of place, the big toe tends to slant toward the smaller toes. This causes the end of the bone at the joint to slant the opposite way and press against the side of the foot, producing a bony bump. Since bunions protrude out, the interior of the shoes easily rubs against them and creates friction, which usually leads to inflammation and pain.  

Bunion Surgery 

Bunions will not resolve themselves so it is important to see a podiatrist for treatment to prevent bunions from getting worse. When bunions first develop, it is sometimes possible to use non-surgical methods to treat them. Non-surgical treatments include custom orthotics, placing protective padding inside the shoes, and wearing night splints. When conservative methods do not provide sufficient relief, surgery is needed. 

The experienced doctor at our podiatry office in Southeast Portland, OR, can correct bunions and the associated dislocated toe joint through different surgical methods. One common type of bunion surgery is called an osteotomy, which involves using pins or screws to hold the toe joint in place after realigning it. Fixing the bone in place with pins or screws helps prevent further dislocation.

Bunion surgery can also involve cutting a portion of the bone in order to properly realign the dislocated toe. In some cases, the part of the bone that is protruding and forming the actual bunion is surgically removed. Other types of bunion surgery involve cutting tendons or ligaments that are too tight on one side of the foot and causing an imbalance, which can lead to the big toe slanting to one side. 

Advancements in bunion surgery make it possible to remove bunions, correct dislocated joints, prevent further dislocation, and correct imbalances caused by tight tendons and ligaments. Various surgical procedures can be used to treat bunions and our skilled podiatrist will recommend the right method for you based on such factors as the cause and severity of your bunions.

If bunions are causing persistent pain and discomfort, we can help. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Myers to learn more about advancements in surgery for bunions by calling Sellwood Podiatry in Southeast Portland, OR, at (503) 235-8594.