Patient back to pain free walking following bunion surgery

Nancy Buck, Belle Plaine, suffered from bunions for more than 20 years before seeking much-needed relief in January 2024. She has always enjoyed long, brisk walks, but bunions were significantly impacting her feet and affecting her ability to take the walks she loves.

A bunion is a bulging bump at the base of the big toe that can cause swelling, redness, pain, calluses and/or reduced joint mobility. Bunions generally develop slowly over many years. Not all bunions can be prevented, as genetics play a role, but the risk of developing them can be reduced by wearing comfortable, properly fitted shoes. While it is debatable whether bunions can be caused by wearing high heels or pointy-toed shoes, wearing these can be a contributing risk factor as they push the toe into a vulnerable position for a bunion to develop.

Genetics play a significant role

According to Matthew Weber, DPM, Podiatry, Ridgeview, roughly 70% of people who develop bunions have a family history. “I always thought bunions were caused by wearing the wrong shoes — I just had to wear the heels — but Dr. Weber informed me they were likely genetic. When I learned that, I recalled that my grandmother always had bunions and poor feet, as did my aunt,” Nancy shared.

Although surgery is not always necessary, you should seek care from a podiatrist if you are experiencing ongoing pain in your foot or big toe. “I developed tough calluses beneath the bunion and had a lot of discomfort after my walks. I even had numbness in the bottom of my feet. I am pretty sure the bunions were also throwing off my gait, causing hip discomfort as I walked,” Nancy shared. “I always needed to bandage my feet after a long walk,” she added.

Seek treatment with a knowledgeable and supportive care team

“My first appointment with Dr. Weber was incredibly informative. He was very patient and knowledgeable; I felt completely at ease and very comfortable with him ,” Nancy said. “Following surgery in January, I am healing well. I am excited to be able to start my long walks again and expect I won't have pain or discomfort after. I found everyone I encountered at Ridgeview — from the receptionists and nurses to the anesthesiologist, and, of course, Dr. Weber — to be very welcoming and supportive. Dr. Weber even went to bat with my insurance company to get the surgery approved. I highly recommend him,” Nancy said.

Medical issues involving your feet, ankles or legs can make performing day-to-day activities an uncomfortable and even painful experience. Ridgeview’s podiatrists provide treatment and solutions to regain pain-free mobility. We also offer same-day appointments for emergency podiatry services or injuries.

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Matthew Weber, DPM, Podiatry, treats most conditions of the foot and ankle, including bunions, hammertoes, flatfoot deformities, fractures, cysts, bone spurs, plantar fasciitis, tendonitis, sports injuries, diabetic wounds, and more. Dr. Weber is dedicated to spending the time necessary with each patient to thoroughly listen and understand their needs and concerns.