What is a bunion?
Bunions are bony bumps that appear at the base of your big toe joint. They might occur if some bones in your feet move out of place, causing the big toe to pull toward the other toes and the joint to stick out. Bunions can be painful, and in some cases, crippling, but simple treatments can offer you relief.
What are the symptoms of bunions?
The major symptom of a bunion is a bony bump near the base of your big toe joint. Other symptoms include:
- Redness
- Inflammation
- Tenderness
- Pain
- Soreness
- A callus on the bump
- Stiffness
- Limited range of motion in your big toe
- Ongoing or intermittent pain
Bunion pain can be mild to severe. It can make wearing shoes uncomfortable and limit your ability to stay physically active. If bunion pain is persistent, severe, or crippling, see the experts at Albuquerque Associated Podiatrists for an evaluation.
What are the risk factors for bunions?
Anyone can develop a bunion, but the following things increase your risk of getting one:
- Genetics
- Congenital deformities
- Injuries
- Foot stress
- Poor-fitting shoes
- Wearing high heels
- Arthritis
Complications that can develop because of untreated bunions include hammertoe, bursitis, and swelling in the ball of your foot. To prevent bunions, wear comfortable shoes that fit well.
How are bunions diagnosed?
To diagnose bunions, your podiatrist reviews your symptoms and examines your feet. X-rays help them determine the severity of your condition and the type of treatment that will best match your needs.
How are bunions treated?
Albuquerque Associated Podiatrists specialists will recommend one or more of the following bunion treatments:
Padding
Wearing protective padding in your shoes helps reduce friction inside the shoe and the pain associated with bunions.
Corn and/or callus removal
Removing the corns and/or calluses caused by bunions can relieve a lot of the discomfort.
Proper footwear
Switching to more comfortable shoes helps ease bunion pain and prevents the bunion from getting bigger.
Physical therapy
Physical therapy exercises can reduce stiffness and increase your joint’s mobility.
Orthotics and splints
Wearing special shoe inserts during the day and splints at night helps to properly align your joints and toes.
Surgery
In severe cases, surgical repair is the best way to restore toe joint function and ease or eliminate discomfort. During a bunionectomy, your podiatrist can remove the bunion and properly align your toe joint.
Don’t live with bunion pain when you don’t have to. Schedule an appointment with Albuquerque Associated Podiatrists by phone or online today.
