Bunions Specialist

What are bunions?

A bunion is a type of foot deformity that occurs when the bones of the joint at the base of your big toe begin to shift out of normal alignment. This causes the bones to push outward, creating a distinct, visible bump on the inner edge of your foot. 

Additional signs you might have a bunion include:

• Corns or calluses where your first and second toes rub together
• Limited ability to move your big toe
• Pain that is steady or intermittent
• Discomfort while wearing shoes that have a narrowed toe box

If you’re concerned about changes in the shape of your foot, or you experience discomfort, schedule a diagnostic exam to explore treatment options. 

What causes bunions?

Researchers are unclear on the exact cause of bunions, but there are several contributing factors linked to this common foot deformity. If any of the following apply, you may have an elevated risk of developing bunions:

• Close relative who has bunions
• Repeated foot strain or stress
• Sports or traumatic injury to the foot
• Foot abnormalities present at birth
• Wearing shoes that are tight in the area surrounding the toes, or wearing high heels

It isn’t always possible to determine the exact cause of bunions. 

When should I see a doctor for a bunion?

For some people, a minor bunion is not a cause for concern. Others experience significant discomfort from bunions, especially when wearing certain types of shoes. Engaging in certain physical activities can place pressure on the ball of the affected foot, pressing the outside edge of the foot against your shoes and aggravating a bunion. 

If you notice frequent swelling, redness, or discomfort at the area where your big toe meets the forward portion of your foot, you might want to come in for a diagnostic exam and a discussion of treatment options. If bunions are preventing you from enjoying an active lifestyle, treatment is an important part of preserving your overall health and wellness.    

How are bunions treated?

Your treatment path begins with a comprehensive diagnostic evaluation. A brief examination of your foot allows your specialist to determine whether you have a bunion. X-rays are also performed to better understand the distortion of the affected joint. 

If your bunion is not causing significant pain, you may be able to find relief through a conservative treatment approach. If your preferred footwear is causing or contributing to the problem, something as simple as changing the type of shoes you wear can alleviate the problem. 

Non-medicated bunion pads can prevent your shoe from rubbing against the inner edge of your foot, and over-the-counter pain medications can relieve minor discomfort. Prescription orthotics are worn inside your shoes to alter the distribution of weight and pressure and can be an effective treatment for bunions. 

If your bunions are more severe, you may need surgical intervention to correct the deformity. The team at Associated Foot Specialists are proud to offer the Treace® Lapiplasty Procedure, an approach that uses a special positioner to align your bones properly, enables precise removal of abnormal bone tissue, and compresses the joint as the implanted positioner is anchored into place. 

If you’d like more information about bunion treatment options, call the office today to book a visit. Online scheduling is also an option and is fast and easy.