Bunion Deformity Treatment

A bunion is a progressive foot deformity that results from mechanical imbalance and undue stress on the big toe joint. This leads to a bony prominence at the inside or top of the joint and drifting of the big toe, causing crowding to the smaller toes. Contrary to popular belief, bunions are aggravated, not caused, by shoes. Bunions are in most cases an inherited developmental deformity of the foot caused by poor foot mechanics. Other causes include arthritic disease and injury.    Bunions more commonly affect women due to wearing high-heeled and pointed-toed shoes, which aggravate the condition. Symptoms include pain at the big toe and joint, swelling, redness, corns, calluses, and difficulty wearing shoes. Because bunions are progressive, it is best to see a podiatrist for diagnosis and treatment to correct the problem before severe pain, arthritis, and undo deformity occurs.

A bunion is diagnosed by our podiatrist with physical examination and x-rays. Conservative (non-surgical) treatment includes padding, icing, anti-inflammatories, corticosteroid injection and custom orthotics.  Depending upon your symptoms, age, and activity, surgical correction of a bunion deformity may be advised by your podiatrist.

There are many different surgical procedures for bunion deformities. In our office, your podiatrist will review your x-rays with you and determine the best treatment option for your specific condition, life style, and goals. Bunion surgery is performed by your podiatrist at either a hospital or surgical center. Patients go home the same day and follow up in the office weekly or every other week for evaluation and post-surgical care.  Call our office today at 630-893-3668 for a bunion evaluation and to discuss the best treatment options for you.