Meet the Experts

Dr. Christopher Hodgkins

Orthopedic Surgeon with Miami Orthopedics & Sports Medicine Institute

Videos

Learning About Bunions

Christopher Hodgkins, Orthopedic Surgeon at Miami Orthopedics and Sports Medicine Institute, says a bunion is a deformity of the big toe; it is a bump on the inside of the toe and it is the big toe drifting towards the lesser toes. He explains this condition causes pain over the bump, which is going to rub on the shoe. Hodgkins points out the size of the bunion does not determine the treatment for it, there are lots of patients who have a very small bunion and have a lot of pain, for example.

When To Consider Bunion Surgery

Christopher Hodgkins, Orthopedic Surgeon at Miami Orthopedics and Sports Medicine Institute, says when the pain that you are having from your bunion is interfering with your quality of life on a daily basis it is time to consider surgery. When that time comes you need to be sure of asking how the surgery is and how the recovery will be, so you can make the right decision for yourself.

Foot Pain: Causes And Surgery

There are some foot conditions that often require surgery. Christopher Hodgkins, Orthopedic Surgeon at Miami Orthopedics and Sports Medicine Institute, explains they are bunions and hammertoes, which are deformities of the toes and there are others that don't necessarily need surgery, such as plantar fasciitis and bone spurs. To prevent problems in the future, it is recommended paying attention to every day aches, anything from wearing the wrong footwear to high-impact exercise can trigger conditions like bunions or worse. Hodgkins says it is important to check a pain out if it is consistent and persistent.

Learning About Bunion Surgery

Christopher Hodgkins, Orthopedic Surgeon at Miami Orthopedics and Sports Medicine Institute, explains all bunion surgery is outpatient surgery, so you come into the hospital and go home the same day. It will take one hour or two to complete and most of the time you will have general anesthesia. He also says every bunion is different which is why there are a hundred different options and techniques to cut the bone, reshape it and redirect it.

Preventing Bunions

Christopher Hodgkins, Orthopedic Surgeon at Miami Orthopedics and Sports Medicine Institute, says the treatment for a bunion starts by telling patients to modify the shoewear so wider shoes, wider toe boxes. If that does not work, you can put all kinds of spaces and splints to tolerate the pain better, but once those things fail it is time to consider surgery. He highlights the pain could be terrible.

DISCLAIMER: The information and opinions expressed in the programs on this channel and website are intended to address specific questions asked or situations described in each particular program, are for educational purposes only, and are not designed to constitute advice or recommendations as to any disease, ailment, or physical condition. You should not act or rely upon any information contained in these programs without seeking the advice of your personal physician or a qualified medical provider. If you have any questions about the information or opinions expressed, please contact your doctor or other medical professional.

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