For several years, Centerview, Missouri resident, Laura G., had been dealing with a bunion that was getting progressively more contorted and painful. It was also becoming more difficult to walk or stand for any length of time.
“I’m an avid gardener. I love being outside and taking walks with my husband, so the bunion was becoming a real problem. We also live on 10 acres and maintain a flock of chickens, which requires me to be mobile,” adds Laura.
The Surgical Expertise and Reputation of Dr. Joel Foster
Laura tried several non-surgical treatment options, including the purchase of an overnight brace and cushions to relieve the pressure on her toes. Unfortunately, these items didn’t correct the problem.
Realizing that surgery was the only option, Laura searched from the preferred providers list on her insurance carrier’s website. She diligently reviewed their background, experience and reviews, and scoured the websites of those providers.
“The video on Dr. Foster’s website about minimally invasive surgery (MIS) for bunions caught my attention. It made so much more sense to actually go in and realign the bones than to just shave off the part of the bone that was sticking out. The fact that Dr. Foster had been doing this procedure for many years and was one of the most experienced minimally-invasive foot surgeons in the Kansas City area really sealed the deal for me,” adds Laura.
“Unfortunately, most severe bunions that are getting in the way of full, healthy living and cannot be managed conservatively will most likely need surgical correction in order to restore foot function,” adds Dr. Joel Foster.
“It’s become so uncommon to find a doctor who can take the time to listen to you, and to educate you on your condition. Because Dr. Foster did, I had no reservations and felt I could trust him completely. It’s rare, but so reassuring and encouraging when it happens,” adds Laura.
The Benefits of Bunion Correction Surgery
Bunion correction surgery requires only three tiny poke hole incisions. This means no sutures are required and there is no permanent fixation. There are no screws, pins or hardware that will remain in your foot once the healing is completed. You can walk right away in a shoe or a boot because the incision is so small.
In Laura’s case, Dr. Foster performed a bunion correction surgery with a double first ray osteotomy. This procedure involves two small incisions in the first metatarsal to realign the bone, improve stability and reduce recurrence.
“Bunion correction surgery is highly successful on average and most people are able to make a complete recovery, provided they follow their post-surgical instructions carefully.”
“The complication rate with this procedure is so much lower than traditional open surgery,” adds Dr. Foster.
“I opted to have the procedure done at the hospital with general anesthesia rather than with local anesthesia in Dr. Foster’s office. It was painful, but it was manageable with the medications. If I had it to do over again, I would choose the surgery option at Dr. Foster’s office,” adds Laura.
Laura’s MIS Procedure Results, Recovery Process
At nearly 12 weeks since the bunion correction surgery, Laura is now walking in her regular shoes without pain and without a limp.
Initially, she had to wear an orthotic boot, even for short distances. She gradually progressed to regular household activity wearing the boot, and ultimately to her shoe and her regular routine.
“My foot and leg were weakened from the inactivity, so I was careful to walk only on fairly even ground. I bought a walking pad from my sister, and have worked on that nearly daily to get my strength back so that I’m ready when spring finally arrives!”
Laura’s lifestyle has definitely improved since the surgery. After hosting Christmas for her immediate family, she has been busy canning and baking, and was able to clear her pollinator garden in preparation for seeding this spring.
“On a couple of the nicer days my husband and I have been able to walk the trail around our property with no pain!”
Without hesitation, Laura added that she would recommend Dr. Foster to others.
“Dr. Foster and his staff are the BEST! Professional, but friendly, and very caring. Dr. Foster answered all my questions and took the time to explain everything clearly – I learned a lot!”
“Carrie orchestrated and coordinated with my insurance and the hospital, and kept me updated on all of it. From the front desk, to the X-ray room, to checking out, nothing but kindness and professionalism,” adds Laura.
Why Choose Dr. Joel Foster for Your Foot Surgery
Joel Foster, DPM, is one of the most experienced minimally invasive foot surgeons in the Greater Kansas City area, having successfully performed thousands of minimally invasive procedures.
He is a double board-certified surgeon, earning certification in Foot Surgery by the American Board of Foot and Ankle Surgery (ABFAS), and is among fewer than 40 doctors nationwide to achieve board certification in Minimally Invasive Foot and Ankle Surgery by the American Board of Multiple Specialties in Podiatry (ABMSP).
Dr. Foster is offering free surgical consultations for a limited time! Click here to complete the form and schedule your consultation today!