Bunions

What causes bunions?

Bunions are deformities that often begin because you have an inherited faulty foot structure. Weak or unstable joints, flat feet, or high arches are all underlying issues that can lead to the development of that painful bony bump at the base of your big toe.

Your risk of bunions is further increases due to:

• Neuromuscular disorders
• Arthritic conditions
• Injury or trauma

It could also be your footwear to blame, especially if you have any of these conditions. For instance, if you have flat feet and regularly wear pointy or high-heeled shoes — this is why bunions commonly affect women — you have a higher chance of struggling with bunions. 

When should I see a podiatrist for bunions?

Because bunions are progressive and only worsen if you don’t get started on preventive solutions early on, it’s important to have a foot evaluation at North Star Foot & Ankle Associates as soon as you start noticing a bony bump forming or if you notice pain around your big toe. 

The podiatry team encourages you to schedule a bunion evaluation right away if your bunion is associated with:

• Calluses or corns
• Swelling or redness 
• Tenderness or inflammation

You also need to see a podiatrist if your bunion is leading to toe joint stiffness or limited range of motion. 

How are bunions treated?

Your bunion treatment plan from North Star Foot & Ankle Associates is personalized to you and the severity of your deformity. Treating bunions often begins with combining conservative therapies, such as:

• Physical therapy
• Custom orthotics 
• Specialized padding
• Taping and strapping
• Switching to roomier shoes
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)

For a severe bunion deformity, your podiatrist at North Star Foot & Ankle Associates may recommend a corrective procedure known as a bunionectomy. 

This minimally invasive surgery, which is tailored to your specific diagnosis, involves realigning your big toe joint and removing any damaged tissues — like the big bony bump — in an effort to restore your full foot function and resolve pain.

Before living another day with bunion pain, schedule an evaluation at North Star Foot & Ankle Associates. Book your visit online or call the office directly to schedule.