How To Avoid Bunion Surgery and Keep Active
Introduction
Do you have a bunion and are determined to keep running without undergoing surgery? Are you worried about the impact of surgery on your active lifestyle, considering the six to eight weeks off your feet, the extensive recovery period, and potential long-term effects on your quality of life? If so, you’re not alone. Many runners share the same concerns.
At Sydney Foot Solutions, we encounter numerous bunion cases both pre- and post-surgery. While surgeons perform incredible work, the implications of surgery on your lifestyle, especially when it involves inserting a pin through your big toe, can be considerable. But there’s good news. Many times, surgery can be avoided, allowing you to maintain your active routine. Here’s a look at how we approached a particular case of a dedicated runner who faced this challenge.
The Runner’s Journey
Our patient, an avid long-distance runner, sought to evade surgery due to her love for running. Her primary worry was whether post-surgery, she could continue her passion without pain or hindrance. Many individuals face similar dilemmas, wondering if they can continue gym workouts or activities like CrossFit after bunion surgery.
Surgery can lead to increased restrictions through the big toe, affecting your posture and walking ability. You’re off your feet for about six to eight weeks, and it may take six to twelve months for swelling to subside fully—not to mention the significant costs involved.
Assessment and Treatment
When our patient visited us, she was experiencing significant pain in her bunion while running. Her determination to keep running prompted us to carry out a thorough assessment. This involved checking her needs, performing a weight-bearing X-ray, and confirming the presence of osteoarthritis and deviation.
Though osteoarthritis cannot be reversed, pain management is possible. We devised a treatment plan focusing on hands-on techniques, like foot mobilization for alignment correction. Additionally, laser therapy was employed to manage and settle down joint tissues. For her, this approach proved successful, allowing her to continue running without limitations or interruptions in her routine.
Exercise to Strengthen the Arch and Ankle
One exercise stands out as particularly beneficial for those active with a bunion. This routine focuses on strengthening the arch and ankle, crucial for improving stance and walking habits. Here’s how you can perform it:
- Equipment Needed: A towel and a step.
- Instructions:
– Roll up the towel and place it on a step.
– Step onto the towel, flexing your big toe.
– Perform the exercise by flexing your toe, then lowering and raising yourself.
– Repeat 10 times, twice a day. Each set takes just 30 seconds.
This exercise helps activate muscles that may become inactive, preventing your big toe from rolling inward and aiding in overall posture improvement.
Conclusion
Surgery doesn’t have to be inevitable if you’re committed to staying active with a bunion. At Sydney Foot Solutions, we provide a thorough assessment and individualized treatment plans to avoid surgical intervention whenever possible. If you’re interested in learning about your options, take advantage of our 60 percent off initial bunion assessment for personalized advice.
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