Fix the joint
Bunion: swelling or thickening around the first joint of the big toe. The toe is forced inward and compresses the other toes. The fluid-filled sac, or bursa, in the toe joint becomes inflamed (a condition called bursitis), which may lead to pain, deformity, and an inability to wear ordinary shoes. Bunions may arise from years of wearing ill-fitting shoes. However, congenital bone deformities are usually indicated when they occur on both feet. Proper foot care, especially in selecting shoes, is the most important aspect of treatment and prevention. The toes can often be straightened by pads or splints, and orthopedic shoes are generally prescribed. Serious cases may require surgery.
Thought people might want to know what exactly is going on, if you didn't know already. In Wilson's and my case it is/was congenital and requires surgery. All other methods of pain prevention including wider shoes and support were consulted. Info from Any other info. needed just PM me. I did go through this whole process myself, twice (the surgery stuff).
It was late in the day, around six and Wilson was still in the office. House had just finished his case and was packing up when he saw the light on. He made his way into Wilson's office and plopped down into a neighboring chair.
"What are you doing here still?" House was always the late worker, Wilson rarely stayed unless he had charting to do.
"More research."
"Oh, your thing."
"Yeah." Wilson didn't really want House's opinion but he knew he would get it anyway. So he decided to bring it up instead of having to hear House rant later. "Foot surgeon or Orthopedic?"
"You have to ask?" House was almost appalled. "You know the only option is the podiatrist who specializes in foot and ankle surgery." Wilson was watching him as he continued. "The orthopedic will want to do it his way. The foot surgeon will actually listen to you."
"Are you House?"
House laughed. "Hey when it comes to surgery you want someone who will do what you want. No more, no less. I know from experience."
Wilson sat back in his chair and thought about it. House was right. He did want a surgeon who would do one foot at a time, and the Ortho would want to them both at the same time and make a mess in the process.
"You have anyone in mind? Seems like you've done your research as well."
"As a matter of fact I do. A guy who has a private practice nearby. Dr. Rick Braud. I set you up for an appointment in 15 minutes."
Wilson was slightly confused now. "Wait a minute. You've set up an appointment for me? You don't set up appointments for yourself, you make me do it. And this guy is willing to see me after hours?"
"I explained that you are a busy doctor yourself and he agreed to see you. Let's go."
"Oh right yea."
Wilson was still confused about why House was being so helpful, actually going out of his way to set things up and talk about stuff. House told him where the office was and then headed home. Wilson would see House after the appointment. House would get the food for dinner and Wilson would meet up after.
The office was on the smaller side, with both a ramp and stairs leading into it. There were several chairs in the waiting room with their backs to the wall, surrounding a coffee table. The table top was covered in magazines, Time, Sports Illustrated, and Golf. Not the usual waiting room reading. The radio was still playing softly in the corner, but there was no receptionist at the window. Considering it was after hours Wilson figured that the doctor sent the receptionist home.
Sitting down with the newest edition of Golf he waited for Dr. Braud. It didn't take long for him to appear in the doorway that separated the waiting room from the exam rooms.
"You must be Dr. Wilson." Wilson looked up. The doc was tall, about House's height. He had sandy brown hair and darker blue eyes. He wore a solid colored polo and slacks, looked like he could leave the office and hit the links. He had a half smile on his face and was leaning in the doorway. Wilson stood up and they shook hands.
"Yes I am Dr. James Wilson. I don't know how much my friend told you, if anything. I'm still surprised that he made this appointment for me."
They both sat down, Dr. Braud kiddy corner from Wilson. "He didn't tell me a whole lot, so why don't you fill me in."
Wow a consult in the waiting room, this guy is sure different. But then again it is after hours. Wilson thought.
"Bunions, I've had them since I was a kid. They've bothered me but not in a while." He paused. "I used to play sports when I was younger, mainly soccer. Anyway they haven't really bothered me a whole lot. I'm on my feet a lot for work and now wide shoes don't provide comfort so I need to do something about it."
"Got ya." Braud responded. "Are they on both feet or just one?"
"Both. I even tried wearing my sneakers and it's not as painful but still not comfortable."
"Alright well let's go have a look and we can go from there."
Wilson had never been to a Podiatrist before so it was a whole new experience. Four x-rays and some surgical marker later and Wilson knew exactly what was going to happen. The consult went well and they chatted a bit afterwards. Wilson's overall feeling about the procedure and the doctor was a good one. He was ready to fill in House and see what he thought about the matter.