Suffering from Bunion Pain?
Learn more about bunions and a new procedure that accelerates recovery and brings permanent relief.
Finally, sandal season is here! While it may feel great to exchange our boots and socks for fun and colorful sandals, it also means putting our feet on display—including unsightly foot conditions, such as bunions.
Not only are bunions unattractive, but they can also cause discomfort or, in more severe cases, considerable pain when you walk. If you’re ready to do something about an uncomfortable or painful bunion, read on to learn more about bunions and a new procedure that can have you back on your feet faster than ever before with far less risk of return.
First, what is a bunion?
Many people think that a bunion is an overgrowth of bone that can be ‘shaved’ off. However, a bunion is actually a complex deformity caused by an unstable joint at the base of the foundation of the metatarsal bone. With an unbalanced foundation, the bone leans out of alignment and creates a bump on the side of the foot just below the big toe.
Comparing traditional bunion surgery to Lapiplasty® 3-D bunionTM correction
With traditional bunion surgery, the foot surgeon cuts and shifts the top part of the bone, only treating the bump. With a Lapiplasty® procedure, the surgeon instead corrects the root problem, restoring the entire metatarsal bone to its proper alignment while naturally removing the bump and straightening the toe.
To learn more about the Lapiplasty procedure, watch the video below:
“The unstable joint is then fused with titanium plates that permanently secure the correction in place,” says Eric Kuhlman, DPM, at the Center for Spine and Orthopedics. “Since the procedure uses advanced fixation technology, most patients can bear walk in a boot within days after surgery rather than six weeks after traditional bunion surgery.”
In one new clinical study, Lapiplasty® 3D Bunion Correction showed a 97% success rate. And, although recurrences can still happen, Lapiplasty® greatly reduces the risk of recurrence.
To schedule a consultation with Dr. Eric Kuhlman, call 303-287-2800.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How long does it take to recover from a Lapiplasty® procedure?
Patients are typically walking within days of surgery. Patients can return to most occupations within days to a couple of weeks, wearing a surgical boot. Within 6 weeks, you can expect to be walking in comfortable shoes, such as tennis shores; however, you should not plan on any high-impact activities for 3-4 months. Short shopping trips and leisurely strolls are the types of activities that should be fine at this point. Around 4-months post-op, you should be able to return to most activities and shoes. - Can I wear fashionable shoes again?
The Lapiplasty® procedure allows most patients to return to their desired shoes. Of course, some fashionable shoes can be painful even with a normal foot so results can vary from person to person or shoe to shoe. - Can I play sports after a Lapiplasty® procedure?
Yes, there are no permanent activity limitations after the Lapiplasty procedure. Most patients are able to return to most activities after the bones have completely healed at approximately four months. - Can the Lapiplasty® procedure be performed on someone who has previously had traditional surgery?
Yes, the Lapiplasty® procedure is an option that can be utilized by your doctor when a revision is required. Even if previously treated, patients can experience the same benefits from Lapiplasty® – with a permanently secured foundational joint this time around. - I’ve heard the term “reproducible” used when describing the Lapiplasty procedure. What does that mean?
“Reproducible” means that a procedure is easily repeatable with expected results. The Lapiplasty procedure utilizes precision, patented instrumentation
designed to take the guesswork out of bunion surgery, helping ensure that your surgeon can get reliable results over and over. - Can the Lapiplasty® procedure be performed as an outpatient procedure and how long does it last?
Yes, Lapiplasty® surgeries are performed as outpatient procedures. Typically, the surgery will last just under an hour. If your doctor is performing any additional procedures at the same time, the surgery may take longer.
