Bunions are a common foot disorder that can worsen progressively if left untreated. If you suffer from this painful condition, David M. Bloome, MD is an experienced orthopedic foot and ankle surgeon in Houston who provides patients of all ages effective treatment and relief from bunions. To learn more about treatment options, call the office or schedule a consultation using the online booking system.
A bunion is a painful bump that typically forms at the base of your big toe when your big toe pushes against your second toe. Over time, this forces the joint on your big toe to grow larger. After a while, the joint sticks out and becomes quite painful.
The skin over your bunion may even become red and make it difficult to wear certain shoes. Or, shoes that are too tight or don’t fit properly can make your bunion worse. Bunions may also develop from structural problems with your feet or certain medical conditions.
Bunions can happen to anyone, but they are more common in women.
Signs that you have a bunion include:
In most cases, you can get relief from bunions without surgery. To minimize discomfort, be sure to wear comfortable shoes that don’t aggravate an existing bunion by rubbing against it. This helps relieve pain when you walk or put pressure on the affected toe.
Protective pads that give extra cushion for a bunion may also lessen pain. Whenever possible, avoid standing for long periods of time and putting undue pressure on your bunion. Oral anti-inflammatory medications may also reduce pain and swelling. Icing your bunion at the end of the day may reduce swelling, too.
When nonsurgical methods no longer relieve your pain, or other complications develop as a result of the bunion, surgery may be the best option. There are several options to remove the bony bump on your toe and realign your toe so it no longer causes you pain or discomfort:
With bunions, as with any course of treatment for foot and ankle conditions, Dr. Bloome takes the most conservative path first, and then if your condition doesn’t improve, he discusses surgical options with you. To learn more about bunion treatment options, call or schedule an appointment online today.