Common Conditions
Bunions
A bunion, or hallux valgus, is more than just a bump on the side of your foot; it’s a painful deformity that can affect your everyday life.
At Sheehy Ankle & Foot Center, we recognize that bunions can interfere with the activities you love, making it difficult to stay active and pain-free. Our goal is to provide you with personalized care that addresses your specific needs, whether you’re looking for preventive strategies or considering surgical correction.
Bunions develop when the bones in the front part of the foot move out of alignment, causing the big toe to lean toward the second toe. This misalignment leads to the formation of a bony bump on the joint at the base of the big toe. Over time, the bunion can become larger and more painful, leading to difficulty in wearing shoes and engaging in daily activities.
- A visible bump on the side of the foot at the base of the big toe.
- Pain and tenderness around the big toe joint.
- Swelling and redness around the affected area.
- Limited movement of the big toe.
- Corns or calluses where the first and second toes overlap.
Several factors can contribute to the development of bunions:
Bunions often run in families, indicating a genetic predisposition to developing the condition.
Wearing tight, narrow, or high-heeled shoes can increase the risk of developing bunions by placing pressure on the toes.
Individuals with flat feet or low arches are more prone to bunions.
Inflammatory conditions like rheumatoid arthritis can lead to the development of bunions.
Jobs that require long periods of standing or walking can contribute to bunion formation.
Diagnosis at Sheehy
At Sheehy Ankle & Foot Center, diagnosing bunions begins with a thorough physical examination. Our team will assess the severity of your bunion and discuss your symptoms and medical history. X-rays may be ordered to determine the extent of the deformity and to guide the development of an individualized treatment plan tailored to your needs.
Our approach to bunion treatment is focused on relieving pain, improving foot function, and preventing further deformity. Treatment options vary based on the severity of your bunion:
- Footwear Modifications: Switching to shoes with a wide toe box and low heels may help reduce pressure on the bunion.
- Orthotic Devices: Custom orthotics can help redistribute pressure and provide support to the foot.
- Padding and Taping: Protective padding can help cushion the bunion, and taping can help align the foot properly.
- Anti-inflammatory Medications: NSAIDs can reduce pain and inflammation.
- Ice Therapy: Applying ice packs to the bunion can help alleviate pain and swelling.
- Physical Therapy: Specific exercises can improve flexibility and strengthen the muscles around the bunion.
- Bunionectomy: In cases where conservative treatments are not effective, surgery may be recommended. Dr. Sheehy specializes in bunionectomy, a procedure to remove the bony prominence and realign the joint to relieve pain and restore foot function.
While some risk factors for bunions, such as genetics, cannot be controlled, there are steps you can take to prevent their development or worsening:
Opt for shoes with a wide toe box and avoid high heels or pointed-toe shoes.
Excess weight can place additional pressure on your feet, contributing to bunion formation.
Regular exercises to strengthen the muscles in your feet can help maintain proper alignment and reduce the risk of bunions.
If you notice the early signs of a bunion, seek medical advice promptly to prevent progression.
at Sheehy Ankle &
Foot Center
At Sheehy Ankle & Foot Center, we know that dealing with a bunion can be frustrating and painful, but you don’t have to go through it alone. Our team is dedicated to helping you find the best solution for your needs so you can walk comfortably and confidently again. Whether through preventive care, non-surgical treatments, or surgery, we’re here to support you on your journey to better foot health.
Take the first step toward relief — contact us today to schedule an appointment.
