Preventing Bunions from Recurring After Minimally Invasive Surgery
Around one in three Americans have bunions. This condition can cause pain and other complications such as osteoarthritis.
Do you dread every time you have to put on your shoes because of the pain caused by your bunions? If you can relate, then you may have considered this procedure as an option.
This type of surgery can relieve the pain caused by bunions and improve the overall health of your feet. But once the surgery is done, the real work begins to prevent them from recurring.
Preventing this deformity of the big toe joint from coming back after bunion surgery can be a daunting task. But don’t worry; we have got you covered. In this article, we’ll provide you with helpful tips that will reduce the chances of your bunions making a comeback.
From the shoes you wear to the exercises you do, we’ve got all the information you need to keep your feet healthy and pain-free. You’ll learn simple yet effective ways to stop bunion recurrence and bunion prevention tips to make sure you’re taking all the necessary precautions.
So, keep reading and discover how you can maintain the results of your minimally invasive surgery and enjoy a pain-free life.
Understanding Minimally Invasive Bunion Surgery
Before discussing how to prevent them from returning, it is important to understand the basics of minimally invasive bunion surgery. The procedure involves making small incisions in the foot to correct the misaligned bones that cause bunions.
Recovery is usually faster than traditional open surgery. But it’s still important to follow proper aftercare instructions to ensure proper healing and minimize the risk of recurrence.
Come Back After Surgery: Aftercare Instructions
After this procedure, patients need to follow specific instructions. These help to facilitate healing and reduce the risk of recurrence.
It may involve:
- Wearing a protective boot
- Avoiding weight-bearing activities for a while
- Keeping the foot elevated
- Keep the surgical site clean, dry, and bandaged as recommended
These measures can aid in preventing complications such as infection or delayed healing.
Incorporate Foot Exercises into Daily Routine
Exercise helps to strengthen the muscles that support the foot.
It also improves:
- Range of motion
- Flexibility
- Circulation
Strengthening the muscles can help reduce pressure on the bones.
Many exercises, such as toe extensions, calf stretches, and ankle rotations, can be done while standing. This makes it easy to incorporate into daily activities.
Working out your feet regularly and wearing supportive shoes can also help reduce pressure and promote healing. Finally, maintain good posture and foot alignment by standing and walking with your weight over your heels to reduce any extra pressure.
Choose Proper Footwear
Wearing proper shoes throughout the recovery and beyond plays a critical role in keep them from coming back. Shoes with a wide-toe box, low heels, and good arch support can help reduce pressure on the big toe joint.
This helps prevent the likelihood of bunions forming again. Steering away from tight-fitting and high-heeled shoes can also reduce the risk of developing new bunions.
Custom orthotics can go a long way in helping your bunion heal after surgery and help it from coming back by realigning and keeping your foot in proper alignment of your foot and ankle when you are walking. Even after surgery you will need some lifestyle adjustments.
Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle
Lifestyle changes can make a significant difference in overall foot health. The healthier your feet are, the less likely you’ll see your bunions reoccur.
Some lifestyle choices to consider include:
- Eat a balanced diet
- Stay hydrated
- Exercise regularly
- Maintain proper foot hygiene
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Wear comfortable shoes
In addition, regular checkups with your podiatrist to detect and treat any potential issues. It’s important to treat them before they become large concerns. This can also help prevent complications and issues related to bunions.
Know When to Seek Medical Attention
Even after taking all the necessary precautions and following postoperative care instructions, bunions may return. If you experience the following symptoms, contact your doctor:
- Persistent pain
- Swelling
- Redness at the surgical site
- Other symptoms like numbness or tingling in the toes
They may perform additional tests to determine the cause of the symptoms. Your podiatrist can also recommend further treatment options to prevent their recurrence.
Remember, early detection and proper treatment are crucial in preventing complications and promoting proper healing after surgery.
Preoperative Planning to Prevent Bunion Recurrence
Preoperative planning is essential in this recurrence following minimally invasive surgery. Before the surgery, your podiatrist will examine your feet and take X-rays. This helps to determine the severity of the bunion and the appropriate surgical procedure to perform.
The podiatrist will also instruct you on how to prepare for the surgery, including dietary and lifestyle changes. Follow these instructions carefully to reduce the risk of complications during and after the surgery.
Postoperative Care to Minimize Bunion Recurrence
After minimally invasive bunion correction surgery, it’s essential to follow postoperative care instructions. This helps to minimize bunion returning on your big toe.
Your podiatrist will give you specific instructions on how to care for your incision. Make sure to elevate your foot and avoid putting weight on the affected foot for several weeks after surgery. They may also recommend physical therapy exercises to aid in recovery and strengthen the foot muscles.
When to Seek Further Medical Help
Preventing bunions from returning after this surgery is crucial. It ensures long-lasting relief from bunion pain.
By following the bunion aftercare tips we’ve discussed in this article, you can minimize the risk of bunion coming back. This will allow you to get the most out of your surgery. Remember to wear proper footwear, maintain a healthy weight, regularly exercise your feet, and keep in touch with your podiatrist.
If you’re experiencing any discomfort or have any concerns, don’t hesitate to seek medical attention from your podiatrist. Get started on your journey towards healthy and pain-free feet. Contact us today at All South Bay Footcare to book an appointment with our experienced podiatrists.
