A lot of Singaporeans suffer from the annoying and painful feet bump called bunions. The treatment for bunions may vary depending on their severity. Non-invasive treatment for less severe bunions includes using bunion pads and footwear changes, pain relief home treatment and medications, and so on.
For more severe cases or those people who want their bunions be removed permanently may be recommended to undergo surgery. There are two kinds of bunions: open-foot bunionectomy and minimally invasive bunionectomy.
If you are one of those people who think they need bunion surgery in Singapore, here are the things you need to know and understand:
Do I really need bunion surgery?
Anankle specialist in Singaporemay tell you that you don’t need bunion surgery. It may depend on the severity of your case. Your ankle specialist may do a physical checkup and imaging test like an x-ray to assess the issue.
If the bunion does not cause you pain or discomfort, your ankle specialist may recommend a non-invasive treatment to manage the progression of your bunion.
However, if your specialist thinks your case is chronic, and it causes you sharp pain and discomfort. Accompanied by swelling, inflammation, and foot deformity, then your doctor may subject you to bunion surgery. This surgery can be done in anorthopaedic clinic in Singapore.
Know the Risks of the Surgery
Knowing the possible risks and complications of your bunion surgery may help you in preparing for it and in the aftercare.
Swelling, infection and delayed healing are the most common surgical complications. Other complications may occur depending on your medical history.
Preparing for the surgery
Your body must be in its best condition whatever surgery you are getting. Here are the things you need to prepare:
Medical History
It is important to notify your doctors about your medical history. What medication you are allergic to, have you been taking drugs like antibiotics weeks before the surgery, if you have any other existing health conditions aside from bunions or are you currently pregnant.
Tests
You may be required by your ankle specialist in Singapore to submit imaging tests like a foot x-ray or CT scan. Additional tests like blood and urine tests may be needed in some cases, but it rarely happens. Fortunately, an orthopaedic clinic in Singapore can provide these tests for you.
Diet
Drinking lots of water and eating fruits and vegetables a week before help you build a healthier body essential for fast recovery. Fruits, vegetables and healthy fats can speed up wound healing and prevent infection.
Having a healthier diet is also necessary for diabetic people who will undergo surgery.
Enough Sleep
Having enough sleep is also important in recovery. Worrying and stressing over your upcoming surgery may affect your immune system. The immune system is important in fighting infection.
The Aftercare
Once your surgery is done, you must pay attention to the aftercare at home. The recovery period will depend on the kind of surgery you get. Usually, the recovery period for bunion surgery in Singapore takes at least three weeks.
Dressing Care
Before discharge, your doctor will teach you the proper dressing, cleaning and care of your foot. Most of the time, the doctor will not allow you to remove your surgical shoe or foot cast at home as it is strategically placed for the alignment of your foot.
When you take a bath, make sure that the dressing will not get soaked. You may need assisting tools such as walking crutches and a crane to help you move around.
Sleeping position is also important. Make sure that your feet are elevated when sleeping to reduce the swelling and pain.
Medication
Make sure to take the medication prescribed by your doctor on time. In the case of misses, don’t take a double dosage at the same time. You may be given antibiotics for infection and pain relievers.
Activity
Your doctor may give you some restrictions regarding activities you can do once you remove the foot cast. Your doctor may advise you to refrain from heavy lifting, intense footwork such as sprinting and jumping. These activities can compromise your bone healing.
Physical Therapy
At the same time, your doctor may recommend physical therapy and simple exercises to gradually regain the strength of your foot and restore its optimal function.
The Prevention
Additionally, your doctor may instruct you on some tips and practice to prevent bunions from recurring.
Changing Footwear
Changing your shoes is the first thing you should do once you fully healed from the bunion surgery. Avoid poor-fitting and toe-squeezing shoes as it contributes to the progression of a bunion. Shoes with heel support with a wide toe area are the best choice for you.
Shoe Inserts
There are shoe inserts and insoles specifically made for people with bunions. It provides ark support for your foot and promotes foot alignment. You can buy these insoles in drugstores or an orthopaedic clinic in Singapore.
Maintain a Healthy Weight
Our feet carry the weight of our entire body and being obese or overweight puts pressure onto our feet. Same thing with frequent heavy lifting. Too much pressure on the feet affects the foot structure and joints. Since your feet have already undergone surgery, they are now more vulnerable to foot injuries, worse case, develop a bunion again.
Massage Your Foot
Massaging your feet is a good way to stretch the tissues, tendons and muscles, making them flexible. You can release the tension and pressure by rolling a tennis ball on the pad of your foot. You can also assess if you have other foot disorders by physically checking and massaging them.
Don’t wait for your bunion to worsen. As much as possible, have it treated early.
Are you looking forward to having your bunions removed? At Specialist Orthopaedic Centre, you can get the most extensive and high-quality foot and ankle care. The Specialist Orthopaedic Centre is ready to give effective orthopaedic care.
