If you are feeling anything unusual in your big toe joint, such as tenderness, warmth, swelling, stiffness, pain, or limited range of motion, you may be in the beginning stages of developing a bunion. It takes years for a bunion to fully form, so your condition may not have progressed to the point where you can see the telltale bony bump on the outside of your big toe, nor the big toe bending unnaturally towards the other toes. Do you wear high heels or narrow, tight shoes regularly? Have you suffered a foot injury? Do you have arthritis, a neuromuscular disorder, or a family history of bunions? Any of these factors may put you more at risk of developing a painful bunion. It is important to seek treatment early for a bunion because it can help halt the progression of the condition, give your podiatrist more options for correcting the deformity, and avoid long-lasting complications. If you suspect you are developing—or have developed—a bunion, it is wise to call a podiatrist to examine, diagnose, and treat your condition.

If you are suffering from bunion pain, contact Dr. Alan J. Spector of Shore Podiatry. Our doctor 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 office located in Point Pleasant, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.