Bunion

What causes bunions?

Bunions are painful bony bumps that form over the side of your big toe joint, right near the base. Medical experts believe that bunions most commonly develop because your big toe gets pushed into an unnatural position due to wearing high heels or snug-fitting shoes. This is why women are more likely to suffer from bunions than men.

But bunions can also occur because of your genetic foot shape. If someone in your family has bunions, chances are, you have a foot shape that can leave you prone to developing them, too. Bunions can also develop because of arthritis, prior injury, flat feet, and neuromuscular disorders.

You can even have the same issues with the joint in your baby toe — causes, symptoms, and treatments are similar — but it’s called a Tailor’s bunion.

What are the symptoms of bunions?

Aside from the visible bony bump, bunions are known for causing an array of issues, ranging from minor to severe. Bunions can lead to:

• Pain, redness, or inflammation
• Limited range of motion or movement in the toe
• Changes in your gait (the way you walk)
• Difficulty bearing weight on the affected foot

Plus, because bunions change the way your toes rub up against the insides of your shoes, you’re more prone to developing painful corns or unsightly calluses.

Do I need surgery for a bunion?

Your podiatrist at New York Podiatry Group will first consider a treatment plan that consists of conservative measures to address your bunions. Treatments for bunions can include:

• Custom prescription orthotics
• Padding, strapping, or taping
• Corticosteroid injections
• Wide-toed shoes
• Stretching or physical therapy

If, after exploring these solutions, you continue to experience chronic toe inflammation and swelling, end up with toe deformities, have stiff, immobile toe joints, or suffer severe foot pain, surgery may be necessary. 

What is involved in surgery to correct bunions?

Bunion surgery is minimally invasive and usually performed on an outpatient basis, meaning you go home to recover the same day as your procedure. The exact surgery you’ll undergo depends on your particular bunion complaints, the cause, and your overall health. Surgery may involve fusion of the big toe joint or fusion of the joint between the metatarsal bone and midfoot. 

In some cases, patients with bunions require an artificial toe joint or repair with wires, screws, or plates. Surgery may also involve realignment of the soft tissue near the joint or removal of excess bone, including the bony outgrowth, from the foot or toe. 

Request an appointment with the experienced podiatrists at New York Podiatry Group through the online scheduling feature or over the phone.