Bunion Specialist

What are bunions?

Bunions are bony bumps that appear at the base of your big toe joint. They can occur if bones in your foot move out of proper alignment. This can cause the top of your big toe to pull toward the other toes and make the joint stick out, forming an often-sore protruding bump. 

Treatment at Monroe Foot & Ankle Care can correct the problem and offer you relief.

What are the symptoms of bunions?

If you have a bunion, you might experience the following signs and symptoms:

• Discomfort near the base of the big toe joint
• A bulging bump outside the base of your big toe
• Soreness, swelling, and redness
• Limited big toe movement
• Calluses or corns near your big and second toes

Pain associated with bunions might be mild or severe, and can come and go. Discomfort might progressively get worse over time if bunions are left untreated. 

See the experts at Monroe Foot & Ankle Care for an evaluation at the first sign of bunion pain.

What are the risk factors for bunions?

Anybody can develop bunions, but the following factors increase your risk:

• Foot stress
• Injuries
• Deformities
• Genetics
• Ill-fitting shoes
• Wearing high heels
• Rheumatoid arthritis

Repetitive stress, such as running and overuse injuries, is a common cause of bunions. Complications associated with bunions include hammertoe, bursitis, and painful swelling in the ball of your foot. Wearing comfortable shoes helps reduce the risk of bunions.

How are bunions diagnosed?

The team of specialists at Monroe Foot & Ankle Care review your medical history and symptoms, and examine your feet and toes. They might take X-rays of your feet to determine the most effective bunion treatment plan.

How are bunions treated?

The Monroe Foot & Ankle Care team offers numerous treatments for bunion symptom relief, including:

Conservative treatments

Conservative or nonsurgical treatments can relieve bunion pain and pressure. Examples include wearing shoes that are wide and fit comfortably, using bunion pads or cushions, wearing custom orthotics, taking over-the-counter pain relievers, and icing the affected area.

Surgical procedures

While conservative treatments can offer you relief, surgery is the only way to truly correct a bunion deformity. Dr. Perel is board certified in foot surgery. He and his team offer bunion correction surgery on an outpatient basis, so you can go home the same day as surgery and begin walking on your foot a few days later.

Don’t live with bunion pain that diminishes your quality of life. Schedule an appointment with Monroe Foot & Ankle Care by phone or online today.