Bunions or hallux valgus are an extremely common condition. Typically, the big toe will deviate towards the lesser toes, resulting in a painful prominence over the inner side of the big toe.
As the deformity progresses, the forefoot (front part of the foot) becomes broader. This broadening combined with the protruding bunion makes footwear painful, causing pain and redness over the bunion.
Over time, the big toe starts to encroach into the territory of the 2nd and 3rd toes. These toes can start developing hammer toe and claw toe deformities.
This can result in pain over the top of the 2nd and 3rd toe, or in some cases overload and a painful callosity over the sole underneath the 2nd or 3rd toes. See our media article on ‘unhappy feet’.
Managing Bunions With Surgery And Other Methods Available in Singapore
Mild symptoms from a bunion typically can be managed by using footwear with a broad toe box to prevent pressure over the forefoot. Physiotherapy can also be used to stretch out a tight calf (gastrocnemius) muscle in an attempt to reduce pressure on the forefoot.
When simple measures fail, corrective surgery for the bunion and in some cases the 2nd and 3rd toes can give a long-lasting correction and relief from pain.
The Changing Nature Of Bunion Surgery In Singapore
In the past, bunion surgery in Singapore would typically require a open surgery and a period of non-weight bearing or a prolonged rehabilitation period with a foot cast. Protruding wires could also have been used before recent treatment developments.
There have been significant advances in bunion surgery since. Currently our Singapore clinic performs bunion surgery as a minimally invasive correction. This involves an incision the size of a keyhole where the correction is achieved using specialised equipment. This reduces the post-operative pain and complications to a minimum.
Our patients typically get this done as a day surgery. The correction is also very stable, with patients able to immediately walk on the foot with a medical sandal. Typically, an anaesthetic block is also given during surgery so that the pain after the surgery is minimized and usually very tolerable.
Who Needs Minimally Invasive Bunion Surgery?
If you experience severe foot pain that does not subside when you walk or wear flat, comfortable shoes, you may need bunion surgery. Chronic inflammation and swelling of the big toe may also require surgery if rest and medication do not relieve the symptoms.
There are many types of Bunion Surgeries, and this will be evaluated and advised by the Foot Surgeon depending on your condition.
- In a full bunionectomy, the bulging portion of the foot is removed
- Surgically fusing the toe joint
- Artificial joint implantation
- Ligaments around the joint are realigned
- Metatarsal and big toe reshaping
- Osteotomy, which involves making small cuts in the bones and adjusting their position
Most Frequently asked Questions (FAQ)?
The bunion foot surgery recovery time length varies according to the procedure or procedures performed. Your foot and ankle surgeon will provide detailed information as part of your recovery.
To learn more about this condition and our capabilities to assist, speak to our practice at +65 6734 8168 or send an email to email@footandankledoctor.com.sg
