If you’ve ever suffered from a protrusive, unsightly, and painful bunion, then you’ve likely had—or at least considered—surgery.
Surgical intervention is the only curative medical solution for bunions. When you have bunion surgery, your podiatrist will reposition your metatarsal bone. Sometimes this involves shaving off bone, or creating an incision to remove a buildup. Oftentimes, bunion surgeries bring permanent results.
Sometimes You Can’t Stop a Bunion
However, nothing is ever guaranteed when it comes to your body. Even after a seemingly successful surgery, bunions can still return. As you may already be aware, bunions tend to be hereditary. If your parents, grandparents, or great-grandparents had bunions, then there’s a good chance their genetics are to blame for your own.
Since your genetics influence bunion formation, they can—unfortunately—also temper the results of surgery.
Your Options for Avoiding Another Bunion
Thankfully, there are steps you can take to stop your bunion from coming back. After you’ve had surgery, it’s important to talk to your podiatrist: listen to their recommendations carefully, and heed their advice throughout recovery.
Your podiatrist may provide you with several methods to prevent a recurrence. They include:
- Physical rehabilitation
- Removable splints
- Custom orthotics
- Lifestyle changes
When it comes to physical rehabilitation, your podiatrist will consider your individual needs, lifestyle, and any relevant restrictions, to best guide you towards recovery.
Podiatrists frequently recommend that people who receive bunion surgery wear a removable splint. Similar to other medical and podiatric splints, a bunion splint is typically padded or cushioned—it’s something you can put on when you’re planning to sit or lie still for extended periods of time. A bunion splint, for instance, may be worn when you’re sleeping.
Similarly, your podiatrist can create you a pair of custom orthotics. Your custom orthotics usually take the form of shoes made to fit your feet. Their soles, contour, and shape help lessen or redirect pressure on your feet.
Lastly, there’s a chance you may have to make some lifestyle changes. While men and women alike can develop bunions, certain forms of footwear are more likely to encourage bunion formation. High heels, for instance, are a notorious culprit. If you’ve had bunion surgery, take your podiatrist’s advice on what kinds of shoes you should or shouldn’t wear—just because your bunion’s gone now doesn’t mean it can’t come back.
Contact Us Today to Keep Your Feet Healthy and Happy
If you have a bunion now or need advice on what you can do to protect your gains, send us a message or call today.
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