The Risks of Having Bunion Surgery
When it comes to having bunions, many patients look for the quickest, easiest treatment method. Bunion surgery is a common occurrence that can often result in complications. According to various studies on bunion surgery, complication rates following bunion surgery are 10% to 55% depending upon the exact kind of surgery performed. Along with a range of complications, bunion surgery can also take quite a bit of time to recover from. At Bunion Bootie, we always recommend natural, non-surgical bunion treatment to avoid the complications associated with having bunion surgery.
Bunion Recurrence
One of the most common concerns for patients undergoing bunion surgery is whether or not the bunion will return. Unfortunately for most bunion surgery patients, bunion recurrence can be quite common depending upon which bunion surgery is performed. While bunion recurrence doesn’t typically occur quickly, it does result in the patient often having to rely on other treatment options or undergo bunion surgery again further down the road. If you are considering bunion surgery, be sure to ask your surgeon how common bunion recurrence is for the surgery you have selected.
Big Toe Joint Stiffness
Due to the fact the bunion surgery often involves surgery on the joint of the big toe, stiffness can actually be quite common. Following bunion surgery, scar tissue can actually build up in the joint, resulting in limited mobility and stiffness. Bunions that were present for a significant amount of time are more likely to cause joint stiffness, however, it can occur for any patient who undergoes bunion surgery.
Post-Bunion Surgery Infection
Anytime a patient elects to undergo surgery, there is a risk of infection. When it comes to infection following bunion surgery, the main concern is the surgical hardware that is used to stabilize the bone becoming infected. While most bunion surgery infections are superficial skin infections, more serious infections can occur. Having a healthy immune system and following your post-bunion surgery instructions can greatly reduce your risk of infection.
Hallux Varus
Hallux varus is a structural problem that can occur following bunion surgery. Hallux varus is when the big toe points away from the other toes and is often caused by overcorrection during surgery. When a bunion surgery overcorrection occurs, a muscular imbalance can occur at the big toe joint. While a hallux varus typically develops over time, they may also happen rapidly after surgery.
Bunion Surgery Nonunion
During bunion surgery, bone is often cut and fused in an effort to improve alignment. Bone which has been cut typically takes about six to eight weeks, however, when it does not heal after a few months it is known as a “nonunion”. Symptomatic nonunions may experience swelling, pain and/or redness.
Start Natural, Non-Surgical Bunion Treatment Today
Want to avoid the complications often associated with bunion treatment? Interested in a more natural treatment for your bunions? At Bunion Bootie we offer a wide range of non-surgical, natural bunion treatments, including bunion booties, bunionette booties (for tailor’s bunions), bunion balm and even essential oils for bunions. Below is an image of a patient barefoot and then immediately following, wearing the Bunion Bootie.