What is a bunion?
A bunion is a hard, bony bump that forms on the base of the joint of your big toe. The bump is often red and sore and sometimes swollen.
Bunions form when your big toe pushes against the toe next to it, forcing the big toe joint to stick out and get larger. Bunions are frequently — but not always — painful, and can result in restricted big toe movement.
Occasionally, a small bunion can form on the joint of your little toe due to pushing against the adjacent toe, forcing the joint out on that side of your foot.
Why do I have bunions?
Bunions are an inherited defect, so if a parent had a bunion, you’re more likely to develop one. Stress on the foot and arthritis can also contribute to the formation of a bunion.
Wearing narrow or tight shoes — as well as high heels — may contribute to the creation of a bunion, and can make them worse.
How are bunions treated?
When left untreated, bunions can cause occasional or continuous pain in the toe and foot. In addition, it can lead to painful conditions such as bursitis, hammertoe, or metatarsalgia.
If your bunion causes you pain, the first line of non-surgical treatment with Dr. Pfitzer or Dr. Brower at Desert Canyon Foot and Ankle includes:
- Changing shoes: find roomy shoes with space for your toes
- Bunion Pads: over-the-counter pads that provide cushioning
- Medications: ibuprofen and naproxen sodium can relieve bunion pain
- Cortisone injections: administered by your podiatrist, they reduce inflammation
- Orthotics: Customized or store-bought shoe inserts provide padding, help weight distribution and reduce pressure on the bunion
- Ice: applying ice can relieve pain and inflammation in your bunion
If these treatments do not provide relief over time, you Desert Canyon Foot and Ankle podiatrist may consider surgery. They only recommend surgery if all other non-surgical options have been exhausted.
There’s no need to walk around in pain if you have bunions. The experienced team at Desert Canyon Foot and Ankle in Avondale, Arizona, offer a range of option to help provide relief for bunion pain and help prevent further complications.
Call or schedule a consultation online today and get that spring in your step back again.
