Genetic dispositions are often hard to predict and can cause many types of difficulties. For example, some people may develop bunions due to a genetic predisposition and struggle to manage this painful situation. Thankfully, surgery can help. Understanding the extent of this treatment and how it operates can help people decide if their bunion needs to be treated in this way or tolerate it without care.
Bunions Are a Painful Genetic Condition
Bunions occur when the joints of the big toe move and distort in such a way that it causes severe pain and emotional suffering. The exact cause of bunions is still a mystery, but studies find that people who have parents with bunions often develop them later in life. These individuals may develop bunions even if they take other steps to prevent them, such as wearing appropriate shoes.
As a result, it may be difficult for people with this condition to avoid it, particularly as they age. That said, there are a few ways that they can manage this problem. For example, those with a severe bunion or worried about a bunion developing may turn to surgery to get help. Surgical methods help to manage bunion development and provide individuals with a more robust and healthier foot.
Understanding Bunion Surgery
Bunion removal surgery carefully removes the deformed bones throughout the foot that trigger this condition. It starts by providing medication that minimizes surgery pain. The doctor may spend several hours in the foot, and some people may also want to be kept asleep during this process. However, localized options are available for those who want to be awake to monitor their surgeons.
Surgery focuses on lengthening or shortening specific ligaments and removing damaged bones from the foot. The surgeon then carefully fits the foot with artificial replacements that keep the toe strong. These replacements take the place of the damaged joints and bones and can perform the same range of tasks, such as supporting the body, bending when necessary, and keeping the big toe stable.
Those interested in this treatment should talk to local services like Ankle & Foot Specialists of Puget Sound. These professionals can identify the best method and will work to prepare an individual for surgery. After treatment, a period of physical therapy helps those with the new, artificial bones adapt to their life after this treatment. They'll learn how to walk on the artificial joint and adapt to any difficulties.