Bunions are very common in the U.S. In fact, 23% of Americans age 18–65, and 35% of those over age 65, have at least one bunion. A bunion is an enlarged big toe joint. This painful deformity can run in families and can also be caused by wearing shoes that are too narrow or even a foot injury. Patients with flat feet, inflammatory joint disease or arthritis are more susceptible to bunions.
With a bunion, the big toe can move out of place and push against the smaller toes. It may be painful to walk and difficult to find comfortable shoes. Because bunions protrude, the inside of your shoe will rub against it causing irritation and calluses.
Treating Bunions
If you observe a bunion on your big toe joint or if you have pain in this area, especially when wearing shoes, please give us a call or request an appointment TODAY.
The first step in treating a bunion is to change your footwear so your toes have plenty of room. Then we will work to reduce your pain and relieve the pressure on your toes with:
- Custom–fitted orthotics to help stabilize and reposition the joint.
- Shoe padding to relieve inflammation and friction.
- A night–time splint that can help realign the joint.
- A cortisone injection to reduce inflammation.
- Special exercises for flexibility and mobility.
If these measures don’t give you enough relief from the pain, we will discuss a bunionectomy where the bunion is removed and the toe is realigned.
Keep Bunions from Getting Worse with These Tips
- Our feet flatten as we age and you may add a shoe size or two. Always have both feet professionally measured each time you shop for shoes.
- Choose shoes made of quality materials that fit well and have a proper fit.
- Avoid footwear that crowds the toes, putting excess pressure on the joints. Narrow high heels are particularly problematic in causing and aggravating bunions.
- Select shoes with wide and deep toe boxes and flatter heels.
- Stay away from shoes that make your foot slide forward as these will jam your toes into the toe of the shoe.
Remember – bunions will not heal by themselves! Without proper treatment, this deformity will cause more pain and complications like chronic bursitis or arthritis may develop.
Cornerstone Foot & Ankle is a full service foot and ankle specialty office with locations in Sewell, Cherry Hill, Marlton, Mt. Holly, Woodbury, and Glassboro; serving the South Jersey region. We offer a full suite of services including surgery, fracture care, fungal nail care, diabetic foot care, pediatric podiatry, custom braces and orthotics, wound care, limb salvage, and treatments for arch pain, heel pain, and sports injuries; just to name a few. If it hurts below your knee, we can help you! CALL NOW or request your appointment online TODAY!