Bunions

Why do bunions form?

Bunions are a deformity that develops at the base joint of your big toe. You may notice that your big toe leans over and covers your smaller toes, while that big toe joint gradually swells and forms an obvious bony bump. Bunions form for a variety of reasons.

For instance, it could be that your big toe is always squished inside your shoes. Forcing your toes into pointy or high-heeled shoes could permanently change the structure of your feet. You may also have a higher chance of developing a bunion due to:

• Flat feet
• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Inherited foot structure
• Neuromuscular conditions, like polio

Sometimes, you develop bunions because of trauma or injury to your big toe joint. You can develop a similar condition in your baby toe for the same reasons. This is known as a bunionette or a tailor’s bunion.

In any case, because bunions progressively worsen over time, it’s important to seek medical intervention as quickly as possible.

Do bunions cause pain?

Not always, especially in the early stages. But as bunions continue to worsen, your risk of chronic toe joint pain seriously increases. Aside from lingering discomfort, your bunions may also lead to:

• Joint stiffness
• Tenderness
• Swelling
• Redness

Plus, the more your bony bump progresses, the harder it’s going to be for shoes to fit you comfortably. Since your feet are going to rub up against the insides of your shoes incorrectly, you can start developing uncomfortable calluses and even painful corns. If you’re experiencing any of these bunion-related issues, you have options for relief at Aesthetic Podiatry & Sports Medicine Center.

Can a bunion be treated?

Yes, and with the help of Dr. Rivera, you can get fast relief from any discomfort you’re experiencing. Your bunion treatment plan is likely going to incorporate several conservative therapies, such as:

• Physical therapy
• Custom orthotics
• Corn or callus removal
• Changes in footwear
• Protective bunion shield pads
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)

Conservative bunion treatments aren’t always enough. If you continue having pain, or if you have a severe bunion deformity, Dr. Rivera could recommend surgery. Modern bunion surgery, which is minimally invasive, is tailored to your specific condition.

Dr. Rivera tries to avoid joint fusion, which locks up your toe joint, whenever possible. She specializes in the more modern Cartiva® synthetic cartilage implant. This allows her to correct your toe joint and restore your toe range-of-motion, so you can get back to your normal activities without limitations.

You can get innovative treatment solutions for bunion discomfort right in the office at Aesthetic Podiatry & Sports Medicine Center. Book your bunion evaluation online or over the phone.