What causes bunions?
A bunion is a foot deformity that causes a bony bump to develop at the base of your toe. There are many factors that can contribute to the development of bunions.
Some people are more likely to develop bunions because of the natural structure of their foot. Issues like foot injuries or other foot deformities can also cause bunions.
Wearing high heels or tight-fitting shoes can contribute to foot stress and cause bunions to get progressively worse.
What are the symptoms of a bunion?
A bunion occurs when the bones in the front of your foot shift out of place. In most cases, the big toe drifts out of alignment and pulls toward your smaller toes.
The bony bump that many people refer to as a bunion is actually an exposed joint at the base of your toe. As your big toe continues to pull inward, it forces your joint to stick out, causing the tell-tale bump.
In addition to a bump on the side of your toe, bunions can also cause:
- Swelling
- Redness
- Limited movement of the affected toe
- Pain
- Corns and calluses
Bunions can also make it difficult to wear shoes without pain or soreness. If left untreated, bunions can lead to a number of complications, including hammertoe, bursitis, and metatarsalgia.
At Mercer Ocean Podiatry, the team of board-certified podiatrists and ankle surgeons offers a number of safe and effective treatments for bunions.
What treatments are available for bunions?
Treatment for your bunions depends on the details of your condition. Before you begin treatment, the team at Mercer Ocean Podiatry performs a thorough evaluation to determine the best treatment for you.
In many cases, bunions can be successfully managed with a number of conservative treatments, including:
- Footwear changes
- Orthotics
- Padding
- Corticosteroids injections
- Applying ice
The goal of conservative treatment is to relieve your pain and restore your mobility. Although conservative treatment won’t eliminate your deformity, it can help reduce joint damage and slow down the progression of your bunion.
What if I need surgery for a bunion?
While many people experience relief with conservative care, you may need surgery to treat your bunion pain. Mercer Ocean Podiatry may recommend surgical correction if your bunion causes significant pain or doesn’t respond to nonsurgical treatment.
If you need surgery, the team works with you to determine the best procedure based on your age, lifestyle, and overall health.
To schedule your bunion treatment at Mercer Ocean Podiatry, book an appointment by phone or online today.
