Bunion Correction Surgery Performed in Louisville, KY
A bunion (hallux valgus) is an enlargement of the bone or tissue around the joint at the base of the big toe. Usually, the condition develops gradually as the joint is repeatedly stressed over time. A common cause is wearing overly tight or pointed shoes, which is why the condition is particularly prevalent among women. Bunions can also result from arthritis, and they tend to run in families.
Not all bunions cause pain or require surgery. Some don’t need any treatment at all. However, if you are unable to walk without severe foot pain—even when wearing flat, comfortable shoes—you might consider bunion correction surgery. The outstanding foot and ankle specialists at Louisville Orthopaedic Clinic can help you find the optimal treatment approach for your unique situation.
Is Bunion Surgery Right for You?
Before suggesting bunion correction surgery, your physician at Louisville Orthopaedic Clinic will likely recommend that you try wearing comfortable and well-fitting footwear. It’s best to wear shoes that conform to the natural shape of your foot and do not pressure your bunion. Other treatment options may include splinting and custom orthotics, which are special shoe inserts that can be worn to help straighten your big toe and cushion your bunion. If your bunion is caused by arthritis, medication may help reduce painful inflammation in your foot.
If conservative treatment proves to be insufficient, bunion correction surgery can address the issue at its source. The board-certified, fellowship-trained orthopedic foot and ankle surgeons at Louisville Orthopaedic Clinic perform bunion surgery using the latest techniques to ensure the best possible results.
Several surgical approaches may be used for bunion treatment, but most involve realigning the metatarsophalangeal joint of the big toe and repairing the surrounding soft tissues, thereby correcting the deformity and helping relieve discomfort. Surgery should not be performed for cosmetic reasons only; it is not intended to solely improve the appearance of the foot.
Learn More
To find out if you are a good candidate for bunion correction surgery, contact Louisville Orthopaedic Clinic today. A specialist at our location in Louisville, KY, area can evaluate your condition, explain your treatment options, and help you find lasting pain relief.