Know The Signs and Symptoms of a Bunion

It is easy to ignore the first signs of a bunion. Some people notice a small bump just outside of the base of their big toe. Others experience ongoing pain that prevents them from participating in everyday activities. Dr. Suzanne Levine is a podiatrist in New York City who treats bunions so you can live your best life in comfort.

So, what is a bunion, and how are bunions formed? And more importantly, how are they treated? If you notice discomfort or swelling in the area around your big toe, do not hesitate to call Millennium Podiatry for a bunion assessment. We can explain the most common causes of bunions and what symptoms to look out for.

What is a bunion?

Before we explain the symptoms of a bunion, it is important to understand how the foot joints work. The large joint in the big toe is called the metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint. This is where bunions develop. Some people confuse bunions with calluses or corns, believing them to be a aesthetic concern.

So, what is a bunion? Medically known as hallux valgus, bunions are a painful bump that slowly develops in the foot. Pressure on the MTP joint makes the big toe lean toward the second toe. Eventually, the structure of the foot changes, which makes walking or wearing shoes challenging.

How are bunions formed?

Environmental factors can increase your chances of developing a bunion. Poor-fitting shoes or high heels are problematic because they place unnecessary weight on the foot joints. People who work on their feet for long periods of time and athletes, like ballet dancers, are also more likely to have bunions. However, most medical professionals agree that genetics is the biggest risk factor for bunions. This includes people who inherit low arches or flat feet.

Common symptoms of a bunion

One of the most noticeable symptoms of a bunion is a bump on the side of the foot. A swollen bump can even lead to tight-fitting shoes. Bunions also cause a limited range of motion in the big toe joint, so if you want to determine whether you have a bunion, try bending or moving around your big toe. Pain or discomfort at any level is not normal, so consider talking to a podiatrist in New York City to treat bunions.

How to treat bunions

The MTP joint is important for your foot to function normally. Most people who notice mild bunion symptoms can try simple home remedies, such as shoe inserts and icing the affected area. Drugstore pain relievers and anti-inflammatory medications may also help. When conservative treatments are not enough, injections at the base of the big toe can temporarily relieve stress.

It may be time to talk to a podiatrist if your discomfort is persistent. The trusted professionals at Millennium Podiatry can perform several surgical procedures to correct bunion deformities. These procedures do not require hospital admission or extensive incisions to relieve your symptoms.

Relieve bunion pain

Bunion pain can be debilitating. As a board-certified podiatric surgeon, Dr. Suzanne Levine can help get your bunion symptoms under control. Call Millennium Podiatry to schedule an appointment and speak with an expert podiatrist in New York City. Our staff can treat bunions and get you back on your feet again.