Bunions

Up to 30% of Americans have bunions –– painful swollen bumps that form on the outside edge of the big toe. At Go Feet in Linwood and Mays Landing, New Jersey, board-certified podiatrist Stuart W. Honick, DPM, PT, provides complete care for bunions, including custom orthotics and, if necessary, surgery. Call the nearest Go Feet office today to schedule treatment for a bunion, or book your appointment online. 

What are bunions?

A bunion is a bony lump at the base of your metatarsophalangeal (big toe) joint. It occurs when the bones at the front of your foot change position due to your gait (how you walk) or general wear-and-tear. 

Bunions affect people of all ages, but they’re most common in middle-aged women and those who wear shoes that crowd the toes.

Do bunions present symptoms?

Bunion symptoms include:

• Big toe numbness
• Hammertoes
• Corns, calluses, or blisters
• Difficulty wearing regular shoes

You might have difficulty bending your toe as the bunion grows bigger.

Should I see a podiatrist for a bunion?

Yes. Make an appointment at Go Feet with Dr. Honick if you have ongoing pain in your big toe or foot. That’s particularly true if the pain occurs alongside swelling, a visible bump, or mobility problems. 

Bunions worsen over time, but treatment can restore the alignment of the bones at the front of your foot. 

How does a podiatrist diagnose bunions?

Dr. Honick reviews your medical records, asks about your symptoms, and examines your big toe and the front of your foot. He checks your joint for swelling and bruising and gently presses on the bunion to find sensitive areas. 

He may order X-rays to assess the alignment of your bones and check for joint damage.

How does a podiatrist treat bunions?

Bunions don’t go away, but various treatments relieve pain and improve mobility. Depending on the bunion’s size, Dr. Honick might recommend:

• Bunion pads or taping
• Wearing shoes with wide, deep-toe boxes
• Taking anti-inflammatory medication
• Custom orthotics
• Corticosteroid injections
• Physical therapy

If these treatments don’t help and your symptoms continue, Dr. Honick recommends surgery (bunionectomy). This minimally invasive procedure uses small surgical instruments to realign the bones at the front of your foot, moving your toe back into the proper position. 

What can I do to prevent bunions?

You can reduce your risk of developing bunions by wearing comfortable shoes with plenty of room for your toes. Dr. Honick recommends buying shoes with soft soles and a wide-toe box. 

If you have a structural problem, like flat feet, that increases your risk of bunions, wearing custom orthotics might help.

Call the nearest Go Feet office today to explore the treatment options for bunions, or book your appointment online.