A bunion is a deformity of the big toe that is characterized by the outward pointing of the big toe, and a prominent bump that forms on the inside of the foot. It can cause foot pain, difficulty wearing shoes, and is unfortunately fairly common. Bunions occur most commonly in women, and the risk of developing a bunion increases with age. Despite the condition being an uncomfortable development, there are several options that a foot surgeon in Nassau County can provide a patient. Foot and Ankle Surgeons of New York can help relieve your pain with our team of expert physicians.

Causes of Bunions

Bunions have a variety of causes, and the source is not always apparent. A bunion is formed by a force or stress that pushes the big toe against the second toe, causing the joint to swell and stick out. Some causes thought to cause or contribute to bunion growth are:

• Genetics.
• Repeated wearing of Ill-fitting footwear.
• Stress on the foot from a medical condition such as arthritis.

Bunion Symptoms

Some symptoms related to bunion growth that may indicate it’s time to seek medical attention include:

• Swelling, redness, or soreness around your big toe and the bunion.
• A visible bump on the toe joint.
• Corns or calluses that may develop on the big toe or the second toe.
• Pain that occurs continuously or intermittently.
• Restriction of movement in the big toe, mainly if the bunion is caused by arthritis.

Treatment of Bunions – Foot Surgeon in Nassau County

There are both conservative and surgical treatments for bunion growth, and the treatment that is right for you ultimately depends on the severity of your bunion and your doctor’s professional recommendation. Surgical interventions are often only recommended after all other alternatives have been exhausted, or if the condition is particularly severe.

Non-surgical interventions:

• Keep the area comfortable, while also wearing comfortable shoes and rotating different pairs. This helps reduce the stress of particular regions of the foot. It is recommended that narrow shoes are avoided. Extra comfort can be added by using over the counter bunion pads and shoe inserts.
• Taping the toe into the proper position. Your doctor can help you learn how to tape your foot into a normal position, which may help alleviate discomfort.
• Icing the area after wearing shoes can help reduce pain, soreness, and inflammation.

Surgical Interventions:

• Removal of swollen tissue from the big toe joint.
• Straightening of the toe joint, which may include removal of part of the bone.
• Realignment of the bones of the feet and your big toe.
• Joining the areas of the joint permanently.

Treatment of bunions can significantly improve your quality of life. Painfulness, soreness, and inflammation can make everyday tasks difficult. Here at Foot and Ankle Surgeons of New York, a foot surgeon in Nassau County, we seek to reduce your pain and help create a treatment plan that works for you. Contact us today to learn more about your options for bunion treatment.