Bunionectomy – Surgery to Address Painful Bunions for Individuals in Jackson, WY
A bunionectomy may become necessary to address severe pain caused by a bunion. This common foot condition can develop and worsen if narrow, tight shoes are regularly worn. In essence, a bunion is a bony bump that forms in the joint at the base of the big toe, or the metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint, causing the MTP joint to become enlarged and protrude outward. This, in turn, can cause the big toe to angle inward toward the second toe, sometimes overlapping it, and ultimately altering the structure of the foot. Residents and visitors of Jackson, WY, who are interested in exploring bunionectomy and other treatment options are welcome to consult with the experienced foot and ankle specialist at Teton Orthopaedics.
Because bunions do not always produce symptoms, a corrective bunionectomy procedure is generally considered only if the resulting changes in foot structure cause severe pain or limited mobility. In many cases, mild-to-moderate symptoms can be managed effectively with conservative treatments, such as wearing proper footwear (comfortable shoes with a wide toe box) and taking non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications as needed.
During a personal consultation at the Teton Orthopaedics clinic in Jackson, Wyoming, our foot and ankle specialist can evaluate your symptoms, foot structure, and lifestyle to determine whether a bunionectomy procedure would be appropriate for you. For instance, some of the problems that can be addressed with a bunionectomy include:
- Severe foot pain that results in an inability to wear shoes or participate in daily activities, such as walking
- An inability to bend or fully straighten the affected big toe
- Persistent inflammation and swelling of the MTP joint
- An extreme drifting of the big toe that results in foot deformity
Before deciding to proceed with a bunionectomy, it is important for a patient to have a clear understanding of what the procedure can and cannot accomplish. For instance, a bunionectomy can often reduce severe foot pain, realign the big toe, and improve the overall structure of the foot. These are the main goals of the surgery. While cosmetic improvement may also result, a bunionectomy is not intended to – nor can it – create a “perfect foot.”
At Teton Orthopaedics, we pride ourselves on offering highly individualized bunionectomy procedures and other treatments designed to return each patient to a full, active, and healthy lifestyle. Contact us to learn more and schedule an appointment at our office in Jackson, WY.