Entrust your bunion surgery to Dr. James Kent of East Texas Foot & Ankle Centers in Tyler, TX.

Why Do You Need Bunion Surgery?

Bunions are the bony growths that can alter the shape and appearance of feet. Although the exact causes of bunions remain unknown, experts believe that foot structure and continuous stress on the big toe joint can contribute to the emergence of those growths. The constant stress may be related to your work or tight footwear crowding your toes.

Surgery isn’t the first option for treating bunions. Your podiatrist may first recommend new shoes or orthotics to alleviate your symptoms. Medication and ice are also helpful because they can reduce the inflammation associated with those growths. Physical therapy is another treatment you can try.

So, when will your podiatrist recommend bunion surgery?

Generally speaking, podiatrists introduce surgery as an option if the other treatments don’t work on your bunions. Surgery may also become a more viable option if your bunions are actively affecting your quality of life. Bunions can cause significant pain, limit your range of motion, and prevent you from comfortably wearing shoes. If those issues are becoming too difficult for you to deal with, scheduling bunion surgery may be the right move for you.

Get in touch with Dr. Kent of East Texas Foot & Ankle Centers and schedule your bunion surgery in Tyler, TX.

How Should You Care for Your Feet Following Bunion Surgery?

Once your bunion surgery is completed, your focus should shift to performing the necessary tasks to speed up your recovery.

First off, you need to manage the pain and swelling that you will likely experience following the procedure. Make sure you have plenty of ice available at home and use it to keep your swelling under control. Put the ice in an ice pack or towel before using it on your foot to easily control its placement.

You should use ice on your surgically repaired foot for most of the day in the immediate aftermath of your surgery. The icing sessions can become less frequent the more you recover. During your follow-up visit, ask the podiatrist if you need to keep using ice.

Elevating your foot is also essential after bunion surgery. If you don't, your foot will swell constantly.

Building a fancy mechanism to elevate your foot won’t be necessary. Simply placing pillows under your foot will already suffice. Stack as many pillows as needed to raise your foot above heart level so you can prevent swelling.

Call 903-939-3668 and speak to Dr. Kent of East Texas Foot & Ankle Centers to set your bunion surgery appointment in Tyler, TX.