Bunion Specialist

What is a bunion?

A bunion is a large, bony bump that occurs on the outer edge of your foot at the base of your big toe. They occur when the bones in the front of your foot move out of place, causing your big toe to push up against your other toes. Over time, this pressure causes your metatarsophalangeal joint (MTP) to become swollen and jut outward. 

Bunions don’t always cause problems in their early stages. However, as they grow in size, you might experience pain, swelling, and general immobility. 

What are the symptoms of bunions?

The symptoms of bunions vary from person to person. That said, telltale signs of bunions include:

• Swelling
• Redness
• Tenderness
• Corns and calluses
• Limited movement of your big toe

If you have a bunion, you might also experience pain that comes and goes, or you might experience pain when you put weight on your affected foot. 

Who is at risk of getting a bunion?

Bunions affect people of all races and backgrounds, but certain factors increase your risk, including:

• Wearing high heels
• Wearing shoes that are too tight 
• Having rheumatoid arthritis
• Having diabetes

You’re also more likely to develop a bunion if they run in your family. If your parents or grandparents had bunions, you’re more likely to get them as well. 

How are bunions diagnosed?

To diagnose a bunion, your New York City Ankle & Foot provider physically examines your feet and toes and asks you questions about your symptoms. Your provider might also ask you to stand up and walk around the exam room to observe your gait and posture. If necessary, they might also order a series of digital X-rays or an MRI to get a closer look at the bones and joints in your foot. 

How are bunions treated?

Treatment for bunions depends on the severity of your symptoms and quality of life. At New York City Ankle & Foot, the providers usually recommend conservative treatments such as changing shoes, wearing inserts and heel pads, and taking over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications. You might also benefit from elevating your foot or applying an ice pack.

If your bunion pain persists, your provider might recommend surgical intervention. There are several types of bunion surgery.  Depending on your individual needs, your doctor might recommend:

• Removing damaged tissue from around your big toe joint
• Removing part of the bone from your big toe
• Realigning one or more of the joints in your toe

You might also benefit from fusion surgery.  During fusion surgery, your foot and ankle surgeon joins two or more of your bones together, changing the alignment of your foot. 

Don’t let a bunion prevent you from living your best life. To learn more about treatment options, make an appointment at New York City Ankle & Foot today by calling the office or using the online booking tool.