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Juvenile bunion surgery

(3 discussions)

My daughter,14, has 4 bunions 2 regular and 2 tailor bunions. 2 months ago she was fitted for othodics and things seemed to be better -the last 2 weeks have been tough she says they hurt all the time. She takes advil to help with pain but really doesn’t notice a difference if she takes it or not.
She is a very high level competitive figure skater and planned to compete in college. She is also a varsity cross country runner so athletics are very important to her.
She has cut down a lot on her sports due to the pain she is getting with her bunions. She seems pretty young for surgery, but if she does would she be able to go back to her sports? This is a tough decision and I don’t know anyone that young having surgery.
Terrie

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3 comments

    Vivian Abrams DPM

    9 10

    Personally, I prefer to wait until after the growth plates in the foot are closed. There are others who would operate on any age, based on the severity of the symptoms. Have you been back to the doctor who made the orthotics? Have you discuused surgery?

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    9 10

    Dr. Abrams-The podiatrist that we are working with is out of town-so I haven’t had a chance to talk to her about her orthotics. She really didn’t say much to us about the surgery except that she would be on crutches for 2 months. Could she have a case of bursitis -the pain seems to be at the point of the bunion and started really acting up about 2 weeks ago. She always has mild pain when she skates-skates can be very unforgiving. Is there other medications that can be used for the pain and flare ups? We have only been using advil or aleve. Also, do you see a problem with her going back to sports following surgery. What is your experience with Athletes?

      Vivian Abrams DPM

      9 10

      Since I do not have all the facts available, I can only respond in generalities. The purpose of surgery is to relieve pain and restoree funtion. Unfortunately, foot surgery is very inconvenient. People think “What’s the big deal it’s only the foot…” This is the only part of hte body that gets cut on and people expect towalk on it right away. As far as skates being inforgiving, I completely agree. Even after surgery, there will be a period of peolonged swelling which is normal and expected. Skates will be uncomfortable.As far as my experience with athletes- I try to treat them conservatively and put off surgery for their “off season” if at all possible. But I do not ever promise a quick fix. Since you will be discussing thois further with your doctor, write down all your questions and make sure they are addressed so you can make a decision based on sufficient information. Good luck.

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