How Do I Get Rid of my Bunion?

If you have an unsightly and painful bump on the outside of your big toe, you may have a bunion.

What Are Bunions?

Bunions are bony bumps that form on the big toe joint on the inside of the feet. Bunions are also known as hallux valgus. You can also develop a bunion at the joint of the pinky toe that's called a bunionette.

How Are Bunions Caused?

A bunion develops when your big toe pushes against your neighboring toe. This pressure forces the joint of your big toe to get bigger and protrude. In many cases, the skin covering a bunion is sore and red.

Structural foot problems, wearing high heels or tight shoes, and foot arthritis can all lead to bunions.

What Are Bunion Symptoms and Signs?

Bunions typically occur in adults, but adolescents can get bunions too. The symptoms and signs of bunions include:

• Protruding bump on the outside of your big toe
• Soreness, redness, or swelling of your big toe joint
• Numbness at the affected area
• A burning sensation at the bunion site
• Hardened skin under the foot
• Corns where the first two toes meet
• Calluses where the first and second toes touch
• Pain in the affected area

How Can You Treat Bunions Without Surgery?

At first, your doctor may recommend bunion treatment via conservative options. Bunion treatment without surgery may include:

• Applying ice to the bunion
• Wearing protective padding
• Wearing bunion orthotics- special footwear designed to reduce pain and pressure

When is it Time for Bunion Surgery?

If conservative methods fail, or if the bunion is a severe case, an orthopedic procedure called a bunionectomy may be the best treatment option. Your surgeon makes a small incision near the bunion and removes it. The toe bone is smoothed to create a more natural curve. The small incision is then stitched closed.

When Is It Time to See a Doctor for Bunions?

It’s time to see a doctor when you have difficulty walking from a bunion, or the pain and swelling is frequent. Also, if you have difficulty wearing your shoes, it’s a good idea to see your doctor.

What Are the Tips to Manage Bunions?

• If you’re wearing high heels or shoes that are too narrow, changing your footwear to low shoes or shoes that have a wider fit can help you manage your bunion(s). Make sure your shoes have adequate room for your toes. Shoes shouldn’t press or squeeze on any part of the foot.
• If you see your doctor early enough, a toe splint to coax the toe back into position may help.
• You could also wear shoe inserts called orthotics to relieve pressure on the toe.
• Protective padding on the bunion may help. Be careful that the pads do not put additional pressure on the foot, which can make the problem worse instead of better.
• Ice the bunion a few times a day for 20 minutes each time to reduce swelling.
• Avoid standing for long periods of time.

If you are experiencing signs and symptoms of a bunion, make an appointment today with Specialty Orthopaedics in Harrison, NY. We’ll provide the most effective forms of treatment to help relieve your bunion pain.