Foot pain can impact nearly every aspect of your daily life, from walking comfortably to standing for long periods. Two of the most common sources of foot discomfort are bunions and hammertoes—conditions that not only cause pain but can also affect the appearance and functionality of your feet. At Certified Foot Care, with locations in Larchmont and Brooklyn, we offer cutting-edge, minimally invasive surgical solutions to help restore comfort, mobility, and quality of life.
What Are Bunions and Hammertoes?
Bunions are bony bumps that form at the base of the big toe, causing the toe to drift inward toward the other toes. Over time, this misalignment can worsen, creating chronic pain, swelling, and difficulty walking.
Hammertoes, on the other hand, occur when one or more toes become bent at the middle joint, creating a curled or “hammer-like” appearance. This condition often develops due to muscle imbalance, ill-fitting footwear, or underlying structural issues in the foot.
Both conditions are progressive and typically worsen without proper intervention.
The Benefits of Minimally Invasive Surgery
Minimally invasive foot surgery (MIS) is revolutionizing how we treat bunions and hammertoes. Unlike traditional open surgery, MIS uses small incisions and specialized instruments to correct deformities with less trauma to surrounding tissue. This results in several key advantages:
- Smaller incisions and minimal scarring
- Faster recovery times
- Less pain and swelling post-operatively
- Lower risk of infection and complications
- No need for pins or screws in many cases
- Improved cosmetic outcomes
At Certified Foot Care, our board-certified podiatrists specialize in these advanced techniques, offering patients modern solutions with minimal downtime.
Minimally Invasive Bunion Surgery
During MIS bunion correction, small incisions are made around the joint to realign the bone and soft tissue. Specialized burrs and tools are used to shave down the bony bump and reposition the big toe into its proper alignment. In most cases, no large hardware is required, and patients can walk the same day using a protective surgical shoe.
This technique is ideal for patients with mild to moderate bunions and offers a significantly more comfortable recovery than traditional bunionectomy.
Minimally Invasive Hammertoe Surgery
For hammertoes, minimally invasive techniques involve making micro-incisions to release tight tendons or remove small amounts of bone that are causing the toe to stay contracted. Because there is no large incision or joint dislocation, the toe can return to a more natural position with less discomfort and fewer complications.
Patients can expect to walk shortly after surgery and return to normal footwear much sooner than with traditional surgery.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Am I a candidate for minimally invasive bunion or hammertoe surgery?
A: If you have persistent pain from a bunion or hammertoe that hasn’t responded to conservative treatments, you may be a good candidate. MIS is ideal for mild to moderate cases. Our specialists will perform a thorough evaluation, including X-rays, to determine the best approach for your specific condition.
Q: How long does recovery take?
A: Most patients are able to walk the same day with a special shoe. Full recovery typically takes 4–6 weeks for bunions and 2–4 weeks for hammertoes. However, recovery time varies depending on the severity of the condition and individual healing rates.
Q: Will I need physical therapy after surgery?
A: In many cases, physical therapy is not required, especially for minimally invasive procedures. However, for optimal results and to prevent recurrence, some patients may benefit from exercises or therapy to restore mobility and strength.
Q: Is the procedure covered by insurance?
A: Yes, most insurance plans, including Medicare, cover bunion and hammertoe surgery when medically necessary. Our office staff is happy to assist you in verifying your benefits and obtaining pre-authorization if needed.
Q: What are the risks or complications?
A: As with any surgery, there are risks such as infection, delayed healing, or recurrence. However, minimally invasive surgery significantly reduces these risks. Our experienced team will guide you through the entire process to minimize complications.
Take the Next Step Toward Pain-Free Feet
Don’t let bunions or hammertoes hold you back from enjoying life. At Certified Foot Care, our highly skilled podiatrists are proud to offer minimally invasive solutions that get you back on your feet—fast and comfortably.
Schedule Your Consultation Today:
Larchmont Office
2365 Boston Post Road, Suite 200
Larchmont, NY 10538
📞 (914) 834-0111
Brooklyn Office
474 Bay Ridge Pkwy
Brooklyn, NY 11209
📞 (917) 965-4800
🌐 Visit us online: www.certifiedfootcare.net
Your feet deserve expert care. Discover the difference minimally invasive surgery can make at Certified Foot Care.