Painful bunion?
A bunion is often recognized by a bony bump at the base of your big toe however, the underlying issue is more complex than just a growth.
Hallux valgus is the medical term for this condition, which occurs when the joint at the base of your big toe becomes misaligned.
This misalignment causes your big toe to tilt towards your other toes, pushing the joint outward and forming the visible bunion.
Unfortunately, hallux valgus is a progressive condition that may worsen over time.
Go to OrthoPedia Patient to learn more about bunions.
Severity of Bunion
Pending formation evaluation, our doctors can diagnose your bunion as: mild, moderate, severe, or extreme. Once determined, an individualized treatment plan will be discussed with you!
Mild Bunion
Often characterized by a small bony bump on the base of the big toe. Even though your bunion may be classified as “mild”, this can still cause significant pain and discomfort.
Moderate Bunion
The base of the big toe becomes enlarged and associated calluses may be present. Pain or hammertoes may also be noted.
Severe Bunion
Continued enlargement to the base of the big toe with likely rotation. Hammertoes and/or cross-over toes may be associated.
Extreme Bunion
Ongoing enlargement to the base of the big toe with rotation noted. Hammertoes with cross-over toes and other forefoot pathology likely present.
Bunion Treatment Options
Let us help you regain your pain free activity level. We provide expert guidance from conservative treatment to surgical intervention.
Changing Shoes
Non-supportive or narrow shoes can have a huge effect on pain. Talk with our doctors about alternative shoes that are suitable for you!
Insoles/Orthotics
A lack of support can exacerbate pain. Our doctors have a variety of over-the-counter or custom orthotics that can benefit you!
Injections
Various injections are possible for painful bunions. This is done by reducing inflammation which can help to reduce pain.
Surgery
A variety of surgery treatment options are available for bunions. The type of surgery is typically based on the severity of your deformity. After evaluation, our doctors can discuss if surgery is right for you.
Surgical Treatment Options for Bunions
Depending on the severity of bunion deformity and symptoms, surgery may be recommended for you. Schedule an appointment today to discuss surgery more with your doctor.
Frequently Asked Bunion Questions
X-rays are extremely helpful for our physicians. This allows them to evaluate the structure of the bones to determine the severity of your deformity.
Contact our team and schedule an appointment with one of our doctors. After x-rays and evaluation, our doctor will make that determination for you.
Opened toed shoes or wide toe-boxed shoes can help to alleviate pressure off of your painful bunion. Our doctors can recommend a variety of shoes and sandals that can benefit you!
Every patient is different with post-operative bunion surgery pain. Generally, a patient’s maximum pain is for 3-5 days post-surgery and does require medication to manage symptoms. Schedule an appointment with our doctors to learn more!
Depending on the severity of bunion and the type of procedure performed, recovery can greatly vary. Our doctors can discuss this with you after evaluation.
Have additional questions?
Schedule an appointment with one of our doctors
or call (760)-642-7009.