Bunions

Bunions are a common disorder that we see in our podiatric office. Bunions most commonly appear as a bump on the side of the big toe, and they are frequently found in women. Pain is typically associated with bunions, but not always. The underlying issue causing the "bunion bump" is a shifting of the bones. The big toes pushes towards the second toe, and the bone behind the big toe pushes outwardly. Bunions are a progressive disorder, meaning that they will become worse over time if left untreated.

Symptoms of Bunions:

-Pain while wearing shoes

-Bump on the inside of the foot

-Could be red and swollen when irritated

-Big toe could become numb

Treatment of Bunions:

-Icing may relieve acute pain

-Padding around the bump when wearing shoes

-Anti-inflammatories could be helpful

-Medicated pads

-Injections of cortisone

-Shoe orthotics

-Modification of Shoe gear and activities

-Depending on many factors, a podiatrist may consider surgery