Faq

Yes you will be able to resume sports after surgery, the question that must be answered with the exam and x-rays is which surgery.

The “best” bunion surgeon in Vancouver depends on experience, surgical technique, and patient outcomes. Many patients seek out surgeons who focus specifically on bunion correction and forefoot surgery. At Vancouver Podiatry, Dr. Roy Mathews has performed thousands of bunion procedures and specializes in advanced corrective techniques designed to improve alignment, reduce recurrence, and allow patients to return to normal activities as quickly as possible. When choosing a bunion surgeon in Vancouver, patients often look for:

• Experience with modern bunion correction techniques

• Clear explanation of treatment options

• Proven recovery outcomes

• Sports medicine expertise for active individuals

There are several types of bunion surgery, and the appropriate procedure depends on the severity of the deformity. Common types include:

• Distal osteotomy – typically for mild to moderate bunions

• Proximal osteotomy – used for more advanced deformities

• Fusion procedures – for severe instability or arthritis

• TCB (True Corrective Bunion) surgery – designed to address the structural cause of the bunion rather than simply shaving the bump

Modern bunion surgery focuses on correcting the alignment of the first metatarsal and stabilizing the joint to reduce recurrence. At Vancouver Podiatry, treatment plans are individualized based on clinical evaluation and imaging.

Recovery from TCB bunion surgery varies by patient, but most individuals can begin protected walking within the first few weeks. Swelling gradually decreases over several months. Typical recovery milestones:

• Walking in a surgical shoe: Day of surgery

• Transition to regular footwear: Two weeks after surgery

• Return to low-impact activity: Week 4-5

• Return to sports or higher-impact activity: Usually starting week 6

Dr. Roy Mathews at Vancouver Podiatry carefully guides patients through each stage of recovery to optimize long-term results.

Yes, many patients are able to return to running after bunion surgery, particularly when the procedure corrects the structural alignment of the foot. Return-to-running timelines vary depending on:

• Severity of the bunion

• Type of surgery performed

• Overall foot biomechanics

• Adherence to rehabilitation

Most commonly patients can start treadmill running as soon as 5 weeks post surgery. As a clinic that also focuses on sports medicine, Vancouver Podiatry frequently treats active individuals, including competitive athletes, who aim to return to high-performance training after bunion correction.

The cost of bunion surgery in Vancouver depends on the type of procedure, surgical setting, and whether partial coverage applies. Some components may be covered under provincial healthcare plans, while others may involve out-of-pocket expenses. Patients are encouraged to schedule a consultation at Vancouver Podiatry to receive:

• A clear diagnosis

• A recommended treatment plan

• Transparent cost information

Costs vary depending on complexity and surgical approach.

Chronic plantar fasciitis is often treated by podiatrists and foot specialists with experience in biomechanics and sports medicine. At Vancouver Podiatry, Dr. Roy Mathews evaluates the underlying mechanical causes of heel pain and develops customized treatment plans that may include orthotics, shockwave therapy, rehabilitation exercises, or advanced procedures for persistent cases.

Most cases of plantar fasciitis improve with conservative treatment. There are many conservative therapies including structural strengthening of the foot, taping, orthotics, laser and injections. Surgery is typically considered only when:

• Pain persists beyond 6–12 months

• Conservative therapies fail

• Daily function is significantly limited

Surgical options are carefully evaluated on an individual basis.

Morton’s neuroma is a thickening of nerve tissue between the metatarsal bones, often causing burning pain, numbness, or tingling in the forefoot. Treatment options include:

• Footwear modification

• Custom orthotics

• Corticosteroid injections

• Series of alcohol/sclerosing injections

• Advanced procedures when conservative care fails

At Vancouver Podiatry, diagnostic imaging and biomechanical assessment help determine the most appropriate course of treatment.

Hallux Limitus refers to restricted motion of the big toe joint, often due to joint degeneration or structural misalignment. Surgery may be recommended when:

• Conservative care does not relieve pain

• Joint motion continues to deteriorate

• Walking becomes painful or limited

Surgical options aim to restore joint function and relieve discomfort while preserving as much natural movement as possible. Decompression osteotomy to restore the joint motion is always performed before considering fusion of the joint.

Yes. Vancouver Podiatry treats recreational and competitive athletes dealing with foot and ankle conditions such as bunions, plantar fasciitis, stress injuries, and biomechanical imbalances. Dr. Roy Mathews integrates podiatric surgery with sports medicine principles to help patients return safely to training and competition.

Many competitive and Masters-level athletes undergo bunion surgery when structural deformity interferes with performance. With proper surgical technique and rehabilitation, patients can often return to high-level activity. Return-to-sport planning is individualized and coordinated to protect healing while restoring strength and mobility.