A hallux valgus, commonly referred to as a bunion, is a condition wherein the big toe starts to angle towards the second toe. This causes the swelling of the big toe’s joint (the metatarsophalangeal joint) and its surrounding tissue. A bunion is usually the result of a genetic abnormality. Certain tendons and ligaments in the foot are aligned in an unusual manner, causing the big toe to angle. A bunion may also develop from frequently wearing tight shoes.
Normally, bunions are not really serious. However, should a bunion worsen, its severity may hinder the person from performing regular activities with ease (e.g. walking, jogging). Calluses along the balls on the side of the big toe will begin to appear. This may cause the person much discomfort. There are numerous approaches to treating a bunion; one of which is undergoing a bunionectomy, or a bunion surgery.
Bunion treatments
Before deciding to get surgery, one may want to first consult a podiatrist (a doctor who specializes in treating foot ailments) for possible alternative treatments. If one feels that his/her case is not too serious, he/she may want to try any of the following treatments;
Orthotics – this approach involves getting special shoe gear to help relieve the weight applied on the bunion. Using special shoe and sole padding can be very effective in minimizing discomfort in the feet.
Therapeutic exercise – a podiatrist may also suggest some foot exercises that will help train the person to walk in such a manner that the weight carried by the bunion is distributed to other areas of the feet. Reducing the pressure on the bunion will keep it from angling further.
Medication – the doctor may also prescribe creams and ointments that may help relieve pain from the bunion area.
Although one’s insurance policy may cover bunion surgery, it is most likely that the insurance company will have a person try the aforementioned treatments first.
Undergoing surgery
A person should get a bunionectomy when his/her condition keeps him/her from engaging in regular activities. Severe inflammation of the bunion area, as well as the disfigurement of the big toe are also signals that one should undergo surgery. Depending on the severity of the case, a number of surgical procedures may be employed in order to correct the bunion.
The simplest thing a surgeon can do in a bunion surgery is to get rid of the lump protruding from the side of the big toe. In some cases, a small piece of bone may be removed from the metatarsal joint so that the angle of the big toe is reduced.
A bunion surgery is considered as a minor operation. The patient can be released from the hospital or clinic the same day as the operation. General anesthesia is administered during the procedure.
A bunionectomy normally costs around $3,500 to $4,000. Though most insurance companies can be relied upon to cover a good portion of the expenses, it is a good idea to double-check one’s policy for foot care coverage.