Bunions form when the big toe is continually pushed against the other toes by some force or pressure. Eventually the joint on the inside of the foot starts to stick out. It looks like there is a growth on the foot, but actually, it's just a protruding bone that is out of place. Bunions cause a secondary issue—the other four toes crowd and bunch together because of the pressure from the big toe.
Some people go years living with bunions and feel no pain—they just deal with the embarrassment that often comes with this foot deformity. But when the bunion starts to form, you should definitely schedule a visit to see a podiatrist for treatment. The pain may come from the joints, swollen calluses that form on the bunions, or the toes being pushed together while you walk.
The first step to getting relief for a bunion is realigning your toes and the affected joint. Your podiatrist may do this by wrapping or splinting the feet. Pads can help reduce pain caused by calluses, and orthotic devices can be designed. Corticosteroid injection therapy will help with pain in the joint. If a non-invasive treatment doesn't work, bunion surgery, also called a bunionectomy, may be the next step to explore.
A bunion won't get better unless you take action to change the shoes you wear and get treated by a podiatrist.
Contact Optimal Ankle & Foot in Fort Lee, Wayne and Clifton, NJ to get help with your bunions. Call 973-692-1113 today to set up a consultation with Dr. Affan Akhtar.