I've had bunions my entire life - thanks, Dad! It never bothered or hindered me from doing anything up until about 3 years ago when I started noticing that not all shoes would fit or could be worn all day long without causing me pain.
2021-2022 is when even though I could still go on runs and function normally, I started having pain when driving with shoes on (I'm talking sneakers, nothing fancy or pointy) or couldn't have the blanket on my feet at night because the weight would cause me pain/discomfort, so I decided to get an opinion. I didn't want to wait until the pain was stopping me from doing things I love i.e. run, go on hikes with my kids, and yes, walking on heels.
I then learned about the difference between Lapidus and bunionectomy procedures and that my case was still eligible for a bunionectomy, which is less invasive. I also learned the odd shape on my pinky toes were bunionettes.
In September 2022, I had surgery with Dr. Elizabeth Cody. She correct both bunions and bunionettes at the same time. Recovery was long and felt even longer! You need help getting to places as you can't drive, but you are walking - slow but walking - right away and the pain is more manageable then the horror stories I had heard.
February 2023 was when I learned to ski on my new feet. On March 26th, I ran my first 4 miles race and my feet felt good. Fast forward to May 21st, 2023 and I ran my first half marathon in over a decade and not only did my feet feel good, but I'm 5 minutes faster then I was in my 20s.
So yeah, if you're on the fence, I'd say take the leap. Follow your doctor's directions, do your PT, and get ready to start using all those shoes that have been sitting in your closet again!
Running
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