Bunions

What are bunions?

Bunions develop when your big toe angles inward and pushes up against the next toe. As the joint of your big toe shifts, it may become swollen. This swelling is known as a bunion.

While some bunions are painless, others can cause chronic foot pain. You may also find your bunions unsightly. Bunions can make it uncomfortable or embarrassing to go barefoot or wear sandals.

What causes bunions?

Often, bunions result from wearing cramped or crowded footwear. Wearing shoes that are too small or shoes that press your toes together is a common cause of bunions.

Bunions can also be inherited. Genetic factors can affect the way your joints work, and these factors can be passed from parent to child. If many people in your family have bunions, you may develop them too.

Medical conditions like arthritis may increase your risk of developing bunions. If you have a condition that affects your joint health, the Eastside Foot & Ankle team can help. They provide a personalized care plan that treats your existing bunions and prevents new ones from forming.

How do podiatrists diagnose bunions?

The Eastside Foot & Ankle team begins with an in-depth physical exam. Your podiatrist examines your feet to check for swelling.

Bunions are often easy to diagnose with a simple visual exam. But you may also receive imaging tests to check for fractures or structural problems in your feet. Your podiatrist might also ask you your medical and family history to screen you for other common foot problems.

What methods treat bunions?

Minor bunions can often be resolved with conservative treatment. The Eastside Foot & Ankle team may suggest wearing different shoes or using orthotics.

Orthotics are custom-made devices that fit inside your shoes. They help correct structural problems like bunions. The practice can provide you with a customized set of orthotics to help ease your pain.

Over-the-counter pain relievers and bunion pads can also help treat your bunions, but many bunions need surgery. Several different types of bunion surgery are available. Eastside Foot & Ankle can help you explore your options and choose the procedure that's right for you.

Don't let painful bunions bring you down. Let the experts at Eastside Foot & Ankle help you find relief. Call either office today or book an appointment online.