Margaret G.

What was your initial medical issue?

I had right bunion pain and a hammertoe.

What did your pain or other symptoms prevent you from doing? 

I work as a physical therapist and started having increasing bunion and toe pain since I was on my feet several hours daily. I was taking a lot of ibuprofen for several months to manage the symptoms. After work in the evenings, the bunion pain became increasingly worse and ibuprofen was less effective. It hurt after I would walk for exercise or during certain yoga positions. Additionally, I was getting a blister on the top of the toe and had to use pads and toe spacers.

Why did you choose Dr. Neufeld and Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Center?

I researched minimally invasive bunion surgery and heard Dr. Neufeld speak at a conference. He had an excellent reputation, had performed many in the area and was a published author on the subject.

What procedure/treatment did you have done?

I had a MICA procedure (minimally invasive chevron/akin osteotomy) which involved bunion surgery and hammertoe release all done without opening the joint.

How did you feel after your treatment?

I am now 8 weeks out of surgery and was back to work in 5 weeks. My bunion pain is completely gone. I am walking progressively longer distances and feel great. I no longer use corn pads or toe spacers. My foot looks great. I just have a little forefoot swelling which is normal for several months after the surgery. 

Do you have any advice for other patients?

I would recommend this procedure for bunion pain. You are allowed you to walk right away in a special forefoot unloading shoe and then you progress to a walking boot. By six weeks you are in a sneaker. I was back to work in a very physical job. I have minimal soreness at the end of the day but am doing great. All my presurgical complaints are gone. My range of motion is great and the incisions are very minimal. Dr. Neufeld and the entire team at The Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Center were wonderful. Every interaction was a positive one. I highly recommend this practice and this procedure for many people suffering from bunion pain. This type of bunion surgery is truly a game changer. Less down time, less scar tissue and less pain than other types of bunion surgery.