The Centers for Advanced Orthopaedics is redefining the way musculoskeletal care is delivered across the region with locations throughout Maryland, DC, Virginia and Pennsylvania.
My initial medical issue were bunions on both feet which I inherited from my father. I was never a high heel wearer.
What did your pain or other symptoms prevent you from doing?
I experienced foot pain in the bunion area and my big toes were turning toward my second toes. It was difficult to fit into shoes and boots. I developed callouses by the bunions as well. My feet hurt just walking and especially hurt while trying to play tennis.
Why did you choose Dr. Neufeld and Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Center?
I chose Dr. Neufeld this time because he performed my original bunion surgery on my right foot, 10 years ago. I saw that he was now doing the minimally invasive procedure.
What procedure/treatment did you have done?
This time I had the new minimally invasive procedure on my left foot. Two weeks later, I had the original (more invasive surgery) plate and screws removed from my right foot. I had that done because I was aware of the hardware and a bony growth had appeared on the top of my foot.
How did you feel after your treatment?
The minimally invasive surgery is a definite improvement over the one I had ten years ago. The scars are tiny, there was less pain and a quicker recovery. The hardware removal on my right foot required a larger incision like the original bunion surgery had. My foot felt better after having the hardware removed. Dr. Neufeld removed the bony growth on the top of my foot as well. All in all, the recovery was great. I had no complications and am very pleased with the appearance of my feet and the ease of buying footwear that finally fits.
Do you have any advice for other patients?
My advice to anyone contemplating bunion surgery is not to wait. I had the “benefit” of seeing my grandfather and father’s bunions and hammer toes. My grandfather used to cut holes in his shoes and my father eventually just wore very large athletic shoes. I saw my big toes moving and knew what the end result would be. I think having the surgery before other complications arise will also help lessen the complexity of the procedure; and therefore the pain and recovery time. I think Dr. Neufeld is a very skilled foot surgeon and I highly recommend him!