Bunions

At Ankle and Foot Care, we are here to help you find relief from bunions and improve your foot health. Bunions are a common foot deformity that can cause discomfort and affect your daily activities. Here’s everything you need to know about bunions, their causes, and available treatment options.

What Are Bunions?

A bunion is a bony bump that forms at the base of the big toe, where it meets the foot. It occurs when the big toe pushes against the next toe, causing the joint at the base of the big toe to become enlarged and stick out. Over time, this misalignment can worsen, leading to pain and other complications.

Causes of Bunions

Bunions can develop due to a combination of factors, including:

• Genetics: Inherited foot shapes or mechanics that increase the risk of bunions.
• Improper Footwear: Tight, narrow, or high-heeled shoes that crowd the toes.
• Foot Stress or Injuries: Repeated stress or trauma to the foot.
• Arthritis: Inflammatory conditions like rheumatoid arthritis that affect the joints.
• Flat Feet: Poor foot mechanics that place extra pressure on the big toe joint.

Symptoms of Bunions

• A visible bump on the side of the big toe joint.
• Swelling, redness, or tenderness around the joint.
• Pain or discomfort when walking or wearing shoes.
• Restricted movement in the big toe.
• Development of calluses or corns from overlapping toes.

Conservative Treatment Options

In many cases, bunion symptoms can be managed without surgery. Common non-surgical treatments include:

• Proper Footwear: Wear wide-toed, supportive shoes that don’t crowd the toes.
• Padding and Taping: Use bunion pads or tape to reduce friction and realign the foot.
• Orthotics: Custom inserts to improve foot mechanics and reduce pressure on the bunion.
• Medications: Over-the-counter pain relievers or anti-inflammatory medications to manage discomfort.
• Ice Therapy: Apply ice packs to reduce swelling and pain.
• Physical Therapy: Exercises to strengthen the muscles around the joint and improve flexibility.

Surgical Treatment Options

When conservative measures are not effective, surgery may be recommended. At Ankle and Foot Care, we offer advanced surgical techniques to correct bunions, including:

• Bunionectomy: Removal of the bony bump and realignment of the big toe joint.
• Osteotomy: Cutting and repositioning the bone to correct alignment.
• Arthrodesis: Fusing the joint to eliminate pain and improve stability.
• Minimally Invasive Surgery: Smaller incisions with faster recovery times for eligible patients.

Surgery is typically recommended for severe bunions that cause significant pain or interfere with daily activities.

Preventing Bunions

• Wear shoes with a wide toe box and proper arch support.
• Avoid high heels or shoes that squeeze your toes.
• Maintain a healthy weight to reduce stress on your feet.
• Seek early treatment if you notice changes in your foot structure.

Get Help for Bunions Today!

If you’re struggling with bunion pain or discomfort, the specialists at Ankle and Foot Care are here to help. Schedule a consultation today to learn more about your treatment options and take the first step toward healthier, pain-free feet.