When Should You Consider Bunion Surgery?

Bunions often develop slowly and many people put off treatment until their bunion either causes them pain or their deformity becomes so large it prevents them from wearing normal shoes. Like most medical conditions, bunions are easily managed when diagnosed in an early stage, when treatment can be less invasive. However, in some cases, when the bunion has reached more developed stages and causes significant pain, mobility issues, and stops you from participating in your normal activities, surgery may be the best option to correct the deformity and get you back on your feet.

What are the stages of a bunion?

Bunions are measured by the Manchester scale or the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) score. These scales categorize bunions by the degree of the subluxation of the joint of the big toe, which means that the more your big toe turns toward your other toes, the higher your bunion rates on the scale. The Manchester scale involves four groups of bunions: none, mild, moderate and severe. The AOFAS system uses a hundred point scoring system and can also be applied to other conditions and injuries that affect the foot and ankle.

When should I consider foot surgery to treat a bunion?

In most cases, bunions can be effectively treated without surgery. However, if your bunion is getting in the way of your normal activities, surgery may be the best option to restore the structure of your foot. Signs that you may need foot surgery to correct your bunions include:

• Deformity of the joint that prevents you from wearing normal shoes
• Severe pain
• Difficulty in walking or running
• Numbness in the big toe or ball of the foot
• Your bunion didn’t respond to conservative treatments.

You should consult with your trusted podiatrist about the best treatment for bunions and to determine if surgery is the best option to address your condition.