Bunion Specialist

What are bunions? 

A bunion refers to an enlargement in the inner part of the joint at the base of your big toe. In most cases, a bunion is caused by a misalignment of the big toe joint or in the bone’s formation. 

Not uncommon, misalignments lead your big toe to point outward, reaching toward the other, smaller toes of the foot. While a misalignment may not immediately exhibit symptoms, you may eventually start to feel pain and tenderness and notice redness. 

While bunions usually appear in the big toe, it is also possible for bunions to develop in the pinky toe. Also called a tailor’s bunion, bunions in the pinky toe will cause the toe to point inward, causing the opposite effect of big toe bunions.

What causes bunions? 

There are not pin-pointed causes for bunions, though a series of factors can contribute to their development. Your podiatrist at Vittori Foot & Ankle Specialist can advise as to whether your bunion stems from any of the following causes: 

• Trauma from a fracture or sprain
• Gout
• Neuromuscular disease
• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Improper footwear
• Overpronation
• Genetics

Bunions can develop because of a mix of the above factors. Your podiatrist at Vittori Foot & Ankle Specialist will help you identify where your bunion comes from and develop a comprehensive and individualized treatment.

What are the symptoms of bunions? 

At first, you may not experience any symptoms, save for some slight pain when you walk. However, over time, symptoms of a bunion can be more severe and lead to any of the following: 

• Swelling
• Redness
• Soreness
• Blisters and calluses
• Mobility issues with the big toe
• Protrusions on the outside of the big toe

These symptoms resemble those of gout, so it’s important to seek out podiatric care sooner rather than later to address any underlying issues and resolve the problem for good. 

How do you treat bunions?

Your podiatrist at Vittori Foot & Ankle Specialist advises which treatment is best suited for you. 

Your provider might recommend any of the following treatments: 

• Custom orthotics
• Toe separators
• Splints
• Bunion pads for closed shoes
• Cold-pack applications
• Anti-inflammatory medication
• Physical therapy exercise

If your bunion is severe, your provider may recommend surgery, which involves the cutting of the bone to restore the toe’s rightful alignment. 

If you have noticed what looks like the beginning of a bunion formation, call or use the online booking tool to schedule an appointment at Vittori Foot & Ankle Specialist today.