Bunion Surgery

Dr. Buckeneberger is Board Certified by the American Board of Podiatric Surgery and is a recognized leader of virtually pain-free bunion surgery. He relies on his high level of training and over 20 years experience to select the precise type of bunion procedure to perform on each patient. Dr. Buckenberger individualizes his approach by blending science with art to achieve amazing results, you can trust him to choose just the right type of surgery for you.

What Is A Bunion?

A bunion is an enlargement of the joint at the base of the big toe known as the metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint. This enlargement forms when the bone or tissue at the big toe joint moves out of place. This forces the toe to bend towards the others, often causing a painful lump of bone on the foot. Since this joint carries much of the body’s weight while walking, bunions can cause extreme pain if left untreated. The MTP joint may become stiff and sore, making even the wearing of certain shoes difficult or impossible. A bunion can also occur on the outside of the foot along the small toe, this is called a “bunionette” or “tailors bunion”.

Symptoms of Bunions  

Bunions will typically be painful, especially to the outside pressure from your shoe. Red, calloused skin may be found on the inside edge of the big toe. In addition, the arthritic changes in the joint can cause pain from within the bunion. Over time, the bunion can cause the big toe to shift toward the second toe. Once the big toe moves, it can cause the second toe to move as well. Corns and other irritations can be caused by the overlap of the first and second toes.

Causes of Bunions 

The most common cause of bunions is an inherited faulty mechanical structure of the foot. It’s not the bunion that is passed down, but the faulty mechanical foot structure. Parents who suffer from poor foot mechanics can pass their problematic foot type on to their children, who in turn are prone to developing bunions. The abnormal functioning caused by this faulty foot development can lead to pressure being exerted on and within the foot, often resulting in bone and joint deformities such as bunions and hammertoes.

Other causes of bunions are foot injuries, neuromuscular disorders, or congenital deformities. People who suffer from flat feet or low arches are also prone to developing these problems. Occupations that place undue stress on the feet are also a factor; ballet dancers, for instance, often develop bunions.

Wearing shoes that are too tight or cause the toes to be pushed together is also a common factor, one that explains the high prevalence of the disorder among women.

When to Seek Bunion Surgery 

While there are a variety of conventional treatments that can be effective for bunions, in some cases surgery is required to avoid deformation of the foot. Other reasons for surgery include severe pain, chronic swelling and inflammation and an inability to bend or straighten the big toe. As with any surgical procedure, a bunionectomy should only performed by a trained physician. 

Call our office today to schedule your consultation with Dr. Buckenberger.