Bunion and arthritis in the the toe joint
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Dear Ask The Doctor: I have a bunion and arthritis in the joint. Is there any way around surgery as this will be a long recup time
Dear Elaine: Most bunions can be treated without surgery. But when nonsurgical treatments do not work, surgery can relieve your pain, correct any related foot deformity, and help you resume your normal activities. An orthopedic surgeon can help you decide if surgery is the best option for you. By far the most common cause of bunions is the prolonged wearing of poorly fitting shoes, usually shoes with a narrow, pointed toe box that squeezes the toes into an unnatural position. Bunions also may be caused by arthritis or polio. Heredity often plays a role in bunion formation. As you explore bunion surgery, be aware that so-called "simple" or "minimal" surgical procedures are often inadequate "quick fixes" that can do more harm than good. And beware of unrealistic claims that surgery can give you a "perfect" foot. The goal of surgery is to relieve as much pain, and correct as much deformity as is realistically possible. It is not meant to be cosmetic. |
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Last Updated ( Saturday, 06 August 2011 )
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