What are bunions?
A bunion is a bony bump at the base of the big toe. It happens when the joint slowly moves out of line, pushing the big toe toward the others. The area can become swollen, tender and painful, especially in shoes.
Bunions tend to get worse over time, but there is a lot that can be done to keep you comfortable — and the earlier you start, the more options you have.
Common causes
Bunions can develop for several reasons:
- Family history
- The way your foot moves and carries weight
- Nerve and muscle conditions
- Arthritis and other joint inflammation
- Injury
- Foot shape you were born with
- Shoes that don't fit well
What you can do at home
To ease the pain at home:
- Wear supportive shoes with a wide, roomy toe area.
- Apply a cold compress to calm swelling.
- Soak your foot in lukewarm water.
- Use bunion pads from the pharmacy to reduce rubbing.
- Take an over-the-counter anti-inflammatory if it's safe for you.
How a podiatrist helps
We'll look closely at your foot and talk through every option, from simple changes to surgery. Dr. Rosenfeld can:
- Examine your foot thoroughly
- Arrange X-rays or other scans, ordered through your family doctor (G.P.)
- Recommend padding or taping
- Prescribe custom orthotics if they'll help
- Perform surgery when it's the right choice