Bunions
Painful Joint Enlargement at the Big Toe
Understanding and Treating Bunions for Long-Term Relief
A bunion is a bony bump that forms at the base of the big toe where it meets the foot. Over time, the big toe leans toward the second toe, causing joint enlargement, inflammation, and pain. Bunions can make walking uncomfortable and make it difficult to wear certain shoes. Early treatment can slow progression, relieve symptoms, and help you stay active without pain.
Causes
Bunions develop gradually as pressure on the big-toe joint causes the bones to shift out of alignment.
Common causes include:
- Inherited foot shape or structural imbalance
- Wearing tight, narrow, or high-heeled shoes
- Arthritis or inflammatory joint conditions
- Foot injuries or repetitive stress
Bunions tend to worsen over time and are more common in women, especially those who frequently wear narrow-toed shoes.
Symptoms
Typical signs and symptoms of bunions include:
- A visible bump on the side of the foot near the big toe
- Redness, swelling, or tenderness at the joint
- Restricted toe movement or difficulty wearing shoes
- Calluses or corns where toes overlap
- Pain while walking or standing
Treatment
Treatment depends on the severity of your symptoms and how much the bunion affects daily activity.
Non-surgical care may include:
- Wearing wide-toed, supportive shoes
- Using custom orthotics to redistribute pressure
- Padding or splints to relieve friction
- Applying ice to reduce inflammation
- Over-the-counter pain or anti-inflammatory medication
If conservative care fails to relieve pain or the deformity worsens, bunion surgery (bunionectomy) may be recommended to realign the bones, remove excess tissue, and restore proper joint position.
Prevention
- Wear supportive footwear with adequate toe space
- Avoid prolonged use of high heels
- Stretch and strengthen your feet regularly
- Use orthotics if you have flat feet or structural imbalances
Early intervention can help manage bunion discomfort and prevent further joint damage. Contact our office today for an evaluation and personalized treatment plan.
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Ready to take the first step towards healthier, pain-free feet? Contact us to schedule an appointment or to learn more about our foot and ankle services. Our dedicated podiatric team is here to provide personalized care and answer any questions you may have about your lower extremity concerns. Reach out today and let us help you achieve optimal foot health and mobility for an active lifestyle.