A bunion, the bony bump at the base of the big toe, can not only mar your foot's appearance and make shoes uncomfortable, but it can cause other foot issues if not treated properly.
At Advanced Care Foot and Ankle in Corona and Ontario, California, our top-notch staff partners with our patients to treat all their foot and ankle needs. Whether it's an acute issue such as an injury, bunion, or ingrown toenail or a chronic condition like arthritis, we provide personalized care with an emphasis on a treatment plan that works for the individual.
Bunions strike about one in three adults in the United States with women and older people the most likely to be affected. They occur when the joint at the bottom of the big toe known as the first metatarsal bone moves outward and the big toe aims inward toward the other toes.
Besides the obvious appearance of the bony bump, symptoms can include pain, stiffness, swelling, and discoloration or redness. Functional issues may occur such as problems moving or bending the big toe and challenges wearing certain shoes. Additional foot conditions like corns, calluses, and hammertoes can also develop.
Bunions can occur for a variety of reasons or a combination of reasons. Contributing factors can include family history, abnormal bone structure, the way a person walks or if they stand for long periods, and wearing shoes that are pointed or tight in the toe area.
Foot injuries and certain inflammation-causing health conditions like rheumatoid arthritis and lupus can also play a role.
A bunion diagnosis can often be made with a physical exam and discussion that includes questions such as when it first appeared and if certain actions affect symptoms. X-rays may be taken to check the alignment of the bones and the joint at the base of the big toe and foot.
Seeing a specialist for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan is key as bunions can continue to worsen if they are not addressed. In some people with large and painful bunions, this may mean surgery. However, many others can be treated using conservative measures.
Less invasive options can include avoiding high heels and changing shoes to ones with wide front areas that give the toes ample space. Applying bunion pads to cushion the area and medical tape to correctly position the toes can also help. Taking nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs short-term and applying ice can aid in easing discomfort.
Specialized orthotic devices inside the shoes can create space between the big and second toes and a splint can keep the big toe straight when not wearing shoes. Corticosteroids can reduce inflammation and physical therapy can help strengthen the foot and encourage better alignment.
Whether a bunion has just developed or has been worsening over time, it's important to get a timely treatment plan in place to prevent it from becoming more serious. We can help. Click to book an appointment or call the Corona office at 951-735-8806 or the Ontario office at 909-983-5710.