Wearing pointy shoes or high heels every day, or rolling your foot inwardly when you walk, can cause a bony bump to form at the base the big toe.  This creates a fluid-filled sac (bursa) to develop over it. Your big toe becomes permanently bent towards the other toes, with its base sticking out. This is known as a bunion. Other symptoms include pain, redness, swelling, limited range of motion and warmth in the big toe joint. Podiatrists can diagnose a bunion through an examination, X-rays, and aspirating the fluid of the joint in order to rule out other possible conditions such as arthritis, gout, or a joint infection. Treatment may include an adjustment in footwear, bunion pads and orthoses to redistribute pressure on the area, or even corrective surgery, if necessary.

If you are suffering from bunion pain, contact one of our podiatrists of Nassau Foot & Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

Bunions are painful bony bumps that usually develop on the inside of the foot at the joint of the big toe. As the deformity increases over time, it may become painful to walk and wear shoes. Women are more likely to exacerbate existing bunions since they often wear tight, narrow shoes that shift their toes together. Bunion pain can be relieved by wearing wider shoes with enough room for the toes.

Causes

• Genetics – some people inherit feet that are more prone to bunion development
• Inflammatory Conditions - rheumatoid arthritis and polio may cause bunion development

Symptoms

• Redness and inflammation
• Pain and tenderness
• Callus or corns on the bump
• Restricted motion in the big toe

In order to diagnose your bunion, your podiatrist may ask about your medical history, symptoms, and general health. Your doctor might also order an x-ray to take a closer look at your feet. Nonsurgical treatment options include orthotics, padding, icing, changes in footwear, and medication. If nonsurgical treatments don’t alleviate your bunion pain, surgery may be necessary.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Oceanside, Franklin Square, and East Norwich, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.