I remember the onset of foot issues as far back as my early 20’s. That’s almost 40 years ago. It wasn’t uncommon to have pain on the sides of my feet just below the big and small toes or the feeling of stepping on pebbles a lot of the time.
I attributed my issue with being on my feet most of the day, then with being pregnant, followed by shoe manufacturers not making shoes like they used to. I never considered I had the start of bunions / bunionettes.
Covid-19 forced me to be home while allowing me to be barefoot all day. After about 3 months I realized my feet still bothered me. I wasn’t on my feet, I wasn’t pregnant and I wasn’t wearing shoes. The light finally went off that I may need to see some one about this.
I started my journey with Dr. Hersh in September of 2020. Making the appointment was quick and easy. During the appointment, I spoke, while he listened. I walked, while he watched. He X-rayed and I cried. It was sad to see what I had allowed to happen to my feet. It was scary to think of how painful it would be to correct it.
Dr. Hersh explained all my options. We discussed the procedure and time frames, recovery and healing, physical therapy and probable out comes. He was thorough in his explanation and recommendations. Although all of this was comforting, what set me most at ease was the fact that there was no judgement. He just wanted to help me live a pain free life.
Surgery on my left foot was done the end of September with the right foot done the end of December. It did hurt...at times a lot, but the pain and swelling is long gone. The stitches and bruising forgotten and the scars fade more each day. I’m still working on strengthening the right foot but the left is amazing.
I started 2021 with new feet and new shoes. It’s weird to look at my feet now and not see my old “duck feet” and odd not feeling some kind of pain. But... it’s amazing to wiggle my toes in my shoes and feel space and air between them. I smile every time I slide my feet into my shoes. No more pushing and twisting like one of Cinderella’s stepsister trying to cram their foot into the glass slipper. That in itself makes it all worth it.
I don’t know if I would have had the surgery if it wasn’t for Dr Hersh. I do know that because of him I’m a better version of me. I also know that if I had to do it again, I would, as long as Dr Hersh was my surgeon.
I hope my story inspires others to take the step.
I hope my recommendation of Dr Hersh helps others take pain free steps!
