I have a bunion and im 14. *pics included*?

Question

Haha okay. I know I dont have pretty feet so you dont have to mention it:)

Im 14 and the doctor said I will probably need surgery before im 21 unless it hurts me.

Well it really hurts!

Mainly the right foot.

Do you think I will need surgery?

Right foot - http://i36.tinypic.com/1o54z5.jpg

Left foot- http://i36.tinypic.com/oigfh1.jpg

Its kind of hard to see but on my left foot my littlle toe reall overlaps my big toe

They also cause problems with finding shoes and stuff.

Answer 1

Yes you will need surgery.  At your age the growth plates are still open, which means if you have surgery it may come back.  They will typically fuse between the age of 14-18 years of age.  The growth plate for the 1st metatarsal which is the bone the bunion is more prevalent has its growth plate towards the base.  The doctor typically a podiatrist can go into the area and remove the bump.  They can also do an osteotomy which realigns the bone to correct for an increased area.  The biggest thing is that it may recur.  Post-op you will have sutures or staples in the skin which will be removed 2 weeks after the surgery.  You will also have to do range of motion exercises to get the motion back at the 1st metatarsophalangeal joint.  ALso the first 2 weeks you cannot shower.  Typically the first month you have to wear a post op shoe.  The xrays need to be looked at and those findings plus your physical findings will help the doctor on his surgical decision.  

If it is hurting you that bad already, it will get worse.  Ultimately you have to talk with your parents.  Also you have to look at your health insurance.  

Hope this helps.    

Answer 2

I've seen a lot of people that have that, but if it's hurting you you'll have to have surgery. It doesn't look bad, but you don't want to go all your life having it hurting you.

Answer 3

The choice of whether you have surgery is yours and yours alone. Don't be pressured into the decision and make that choice on the information you get from your Doctor, family and friends you really trust.

You have probably been told by your Doctor that Bunions (Hallux Vagus) are caused by bad choices in shoe wear but if you change to more sensible shoes, not necessarily the latest fashion shoe. Go for sensible now and it just might remove the need for surgery later.

Good luck.