Bunion Deformity

By Dr. Reza Mobarak, Southwest Foot and Ankle Center

There are many common foot problems that occur in the lower extremity. But one of the most common problems is bunion deformity. This is a deformity when the big toe and the bone under the big toe are displaced. This in turn causes the big toe to be pushed laterally or toward the small toes. As this occurs, this will cause the foot to widen which then causes irritation to the big toe joint. The soft tissues and the bones have pain due to this condition.

Some of the most common symptoms of a bunion deformity may include: pain, swelling, and redness to the big toe joint. Burning is also a very common pain symptom, especially when the big toe joint rubs against the shoe during ambulation and weight bearing activities. Callus and corns may also form on the bottom of the feet. Stiffness of the big toe joint is also very common, especially with long-term complaint of this condition.

The major cause of bunion deformity is hereditary or when the patients have a history of this problem in the family. The other major cause of a bunion deformity is the long-term use of ill fitted shoe gear. Rheumatoid and osteoarthritis is also a very common cause of formation of bunions.

There are different treatments of a bunion deformity. They range from conservative to surgical intervention. Conservative treatments include different shoe gear, use of a bunion splint, physical therapy, and custom inserts placed into the shoes to prevent further severity of the current condition. But surgery is the main treatment of a bunion deformity. This is an elective procedure, which is very common and is done every day at Southwest Foot and Ankle Center. The surgery is a very consistent and effective procedure that corrects the bunion deformity and prevents from reoccurrence. Surgery for bunion deformity has drastically changed in the last few years. There is no such thing that a patient needs to be “off of their feet” for six to eight weeks. Ninety-five percent of our patients are walking in a below knee walker in less than a week. Little swelling and little pain is present after the procedure. The procedure is done at an outpatient surgery center in less than one hour. Sutures are removed in two weeks, and aggressive physical therapy is also initiated in one week after surgery to prevent stiffness of the joint and prevention of formation of scar tissue. Dr. Mobarak also uses a pain pump that is placed in the patient’s foot to illuminate pain or the first few days after surgery.

Above is an anatomical picture of before and after a bunion deformity. As pictured the bone is set in place with a screw to prevent from the bunion deformity to reoccur.

Bunions are very common, but are also easily treated. With the right surgeon, your bunion will be in good hands. Dr. Mobarak is a master in bunion surgery and has had great success with his patients. If you experience a bunion that is giving you problems, call Southwest Foot and Ankle Center to receive an evaluation and discuss all of your options that best fit your needs.

Premier bunion surgeon Dr. Reza Mobarak heads the Southwest Foot and Ankle Center with offices in Plano and Lewisville and may be reached at 972-316-0902. www.swfacenter.com