Should Bunions Be Removed or Left Alone?

Jan. 10, 2011 - PRLog -- Alameda, CA – For many people the sight of a bunion on their foot isn’t that big of a deal unless it is a cause for pain. Bunions are a disorder that begins when the big toe “leans” over, changing the angle of the bones so that over the years a bump forms. For most people the bunion bump doesn’t really begin to show or cause discomfort until they get older. For seniors it’s usually a matter of just dealing with it by wearing wider shoes or sandals unless it becomes too much of an irritation in which case surgery is usually required.

For younger patients the sight of awkward toe and foot formation can be cause for embarrassment even if pain isn’t a factor in their decision. Especially at a young age, looks are an important part of their lives so if a bunion is pronounced it will not be attractive and can limit the types of shoe styles you can wear. This may be a travesty to young fashionistas trying to show off their best looks.

Aside from buying more sensible shoes to alleviate pain, surgery, by a skilled and experience orthopeadic surgeon or podiatrist is the method of choice to permanently solve the issue.  

There are several types of surgeries to address bunions:

1. The removal of the bony enlargement from the first metatarsal.
2. Straightening the big toe so that it is aligned with the other toes and foot.
3. Realigning the cartilaginous surface of the joint on the big toe.
4. Shortening or lengthening or rising or lowering the first metatarsal bone.
5 Correcting unusual bowing or other misalignment within the big toe and/or other toes so they all appear uniformed.

Dr. Jeffrey Niccoli at Alameda Family Podiatry Group has been studying, caring for, and developing effective ways of treating obscure foot injuries, including bunions throughout his long and accomplished career in medicine. As a graduate of California College of Podiatric Medicine in San Francisco and after spending his externship at Stanford University, Harvard Affiliated Massachusetts General Hospital, Dr. Niccoli acquired a Masters degree in Medical Education.

He is the former Chief Surgical Resident for Coast Plaza Medical Center in Los Angeles where he worked on reconstructive surgeries for feet and legs, ankle pain and degenerative joint diseases. In addition to his Podeatric experience, Dr. Niccoli has extensively studied the neurological conditions, advanced biomechanics, hind foot and ankle trauma as well as revisional surgery and sports medicine. Dr. Niccoli uses his education and advanced skills to help his patient’s recover quickly from their physical disorders but can also assist in emotional recovery as well.

For more information about the how best to treat your foot and heel pain contact Dr. Niccoli via the Alameda Family Podiatry Group at (510) 521-3410 or click on http://www.drniccoli.com.  Ask about the new TOPAZ procedure for heel pain.

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At Alameda Family Podiatry Group, we specialize in the very best care for your foot and ankle problems. Our staff is caring, friendly and dedicated to making your visit pleasant and comfortable. The following is a brief list of common foot problems we treat. Whatever your problem, whatever your age, effective treatment is available for you. Dr. Niccoli will "fix your feet" and give you the very best care.