Bunions are a prevalent foot deformity that can limit your choice of shoes, inflicting pain and discomfort throughout the day. They develop when the big toe joint misaligns, causing the toe itself to angle towards the second toe. This, in turn, creates a bony bump that will only worsen if left untreated.

Wayne Foot and Ankle Center has decided to share some info on this frustrating and painful deformity, with the end goal of keeping your steps painless and your footwear choice unrestricted. Fitter feet await!

Signs and Symptoms of Bunions

Below are some common signs and symptoms to look out for:

• A noticeable bump on the outside of the base of your big toe.
• Redness, swelling, or tenderness around the big toe joint.
• Pain in the big toe joint, either constant or intermittent.
• Difficulty moving your big toe, especially if arthritis is present in the joint.
• Corns or calluses forming between the big toe and second toe, caused by friction.

Treatment Options for Bunions

Fortunately, there are several treatment options available for bunions:

• Footwear Changes: Select shoes with wide toe boxes that allow your toes to wiggle freely. Avoid narrow, high-heeled shoes that crowd your toes and worsen bunion pain.
• Padding and Taping: Padding the bunion with over-the-counter pads or dressings can help cushion the area, reducing friction against your shoes. Taping techniques can also be used to help realign the big toe.
• Orthotic Devices: Orthotics are shoe inserts specially designed to support your feet and improve biomechanics. They can help distribute pressure more evenly across your foot, alleviating bunion pain.
• Physical Therapy: Physical therapy exercises strengthen the muscles around your foot joint and improve flexibility, reducing bunion aches and discomfort and making athletics and sports easier to participate in.
• Splints for Nighttime Wear: Night splints worn during sleep can gently realign your big toe and prevent further progression of the deformity.
• Surgery: In severe cases where conservative treatments fail to provide relief, your podiatrist might suggest a review of surgical options.  

If bunions are getting in your way, Dr. Lindsey Calligaro at Wayne Foot & Ankle Center is happy to help. The team at Wayne Foot and Ankle has the tools, techniques, and proven expertise to treat your feet. Contact us today to schedule an appointment!