Our Services / Bunions

What are bunions?

A bunion is a hard, bony bump that forms at the base of your big toe. It occurs due to a misalignment of the bones at the front of your foot. 

Anyone can experience a bunion, but they’re especially common in middle-aged women who wear shoes that crowd the toes, like high heels.

What causes bunions?

Experts aren’t entirely sure what causes bunions, but several factors are thought to contribute, including your genetics, foot mechanics, and foot structure. For example, you’re more likely to experience a bunion if your gait causes your big toe to press against your second toe when you walk.

Bunions develop slowly over weeks or months. As your bunion grows, you might notice the pain is worse when you stand for long periods or when you wear shoes that crowd your toes.

What are the symptoms of bunions?

Symptoms of bunions include:

• A red, swollen bump on the outside edge of your big toe
• Difficulty wiggling or bending your toe
• Corns or calluses
• Difficulty wearing certain types of shoes
• Hammertoes

After standing up or exercising, you might also notice your big toe feels numb.

Who is at risk of experiencing bunions?

Bunions affect people of all ages and races, but several factors may increase your risk, including a history of foot injuries, having an inflammatory disease like rheumatoid arthritis, or having an abnormal foot structure. For example, if you have flat feet, you’re more likely to develop a bunion.

How are bunions diagnosed?

To diagnose a bunion, your Inland Podiatry Group provider has you remove your shoes and socks and examine your feet and toes. They might also order a series of X-rays to check for joint damage or to see if the bones at the front of your foot are out of alignment. After determining the severity of your bunion, the team develops a treatment plan.

How are bunions treated?

Treatment for bunions depends on several factors, including the size of the bunion, the severity of your symptoms, and their impact on your daily routine. Whenever possible, the team at Inland Podiatry Group recommends conservative measures, including:

• Bunion pads and taping
• Wearing more comfortable shoes
• Custom orthotics
• Pain medication
• Physical therapy
• Corticosteroid injections

If nonsurgical treatments don’t help, and you experience foot pain that affects your ability to work or stay physically active, the team might recommend surgery. Inland Podiatry Group has an ambulatory surgical center on-site that provides outpatient procedures, including minimally invasive bunion removal.

To learn more about the treatment options for bunions, make an appointment at Inland Podiatry Group by calling the office or clicking the online booking feature today.