Do you have a bunion that is causing you pain and interfering with your daily activities? If so, a trip to Dr. James Kent, DPM, MS at East Texas Foot & Ankle Centers in Tyler, TX for bunion surgery may be in order. Of course, you'll want to be well-informed before you decide to undergo surgery or not. Here is what you need to know.
When Should I Consider Having Bunion Surgery?
Most Tyler, TX residents begin to consider bunion surgery when their bunion becomes increasingly painful or when it begins to interfere with their daily routines. Only a qualified podiatrist can let you know if bunion surgery is a good option for you, however, so if you have any questions, be sure to set up an appointment with Dr. Kent at
East Texas Foot & Ankle Centers
.
What Measures Can I Take to Avoid Bunion Surgery?
While bunions generally get worse - rather than better - over time, there are measures that you can take today to delay or decrease your chances of needing to visit Dr. Kent in Tyler, TX for bunion surgery. For example, you may switch to more comfortable, roomy walking shoes, you may add extra padding to your shoes, or you may avoid standing or walking for long periods of time. For more severe cases, you may also try pain medications, ice or orthotic devices. All of these can help.
Is Bunion Surgery Painful?
If you do need to come into
East Texas Foot & Ankle Centers in
Tyler, TX for bunion surgery, rest assured that the procedure is not painful. You will be given anesthesia so you won't feel anything. Once the procedure is over, it is normal to have pain for a few days, but this pain can generally be treated well with oral pain medication. The symptoms should taper off on their own over a couple of weeks.
How Long Will It Be Until I Can Resume Normal Activities?
The amount of time it will take before you can resume normal activities, such as walking, driving and working, can vary significantly. This is a great question to ask Dr. Kent before your surgery.
Can My Bunion Return After Surgery?
Unfortunately, yes, your bunion can return if you do not change any habits that may have caused the bunion in the first place. The most important change is choosing more sensible shoes, though you may need to also give up certain activities. With a few lifestyle changes, however, your bunion should not return.
Bunion surgery might sound scary at first, but thankfully, it really isn't as bad as you might think. Call and schedule an appointment with Dr. Kent at
East Texas Foot & Ankle Centers
in Tyler, TX today to find out more about what treatment options you may have.
