What Treatments are Available for Bunions?

Do you have a bulge or bump on the outside of your big toe? Bunions are a common foot ailment that can be painful and difficult to live with. Luckily, many treatments can alleviate bunion symptoms, so you can rejoin the New York social scene in your favorite high heels and pumps.

When it comes to bunions, some people find relief by wearing orthotics (shoe inserts), while others have luck with injections at the base of the big toe. However, surgery at Millennium Podiatry can provide more long-lasting relief depending on your symptoms.

The best way to decide which bunion treatment is right for you is to consult with a podiatrist near me who will examine your feet and find out what options might work best for your needs. Read below or call board-certified podiatric surgeon Dr. Suzanne Levine to schedule a bunion assessment in New York City.

What causes bunions?

A bunion normally forms on the side of your big toe. Ill-fitting shoes and narrow heels could cause the big toe to lean in toward the other toes, forming a bunion. In many other cases, bunions are the result of genetics. Bunions often affect women who wear high heels regularly, although men can be affected by them as well. Unfortunately, this bump can put pressure on your shoes and result in symptoms, such as:

• Pain: The most common symptom of bunions is pain where the bump is located on the big toe. The pain can be a sharp or a dull ache, and it can increase with certain activities, such as walking.

• Redness: It's possible for bunions to become swollen or inflamed. Your bunion will become red, and it may feel very warm to the touch.

• Restricted movement: A bunion can cause stiffness and restrict your movement. This means you may have trouble working or attending social events.

What are my bunion treatment options?

When it comes to bunions, there are several options available for patients. The best one depends on the severity of your symptoms and whether you want to avoid invasive options, like surgery. During a bunion consultation, a podiatrist near me, like Dr. Levine, can diagnose your condition and provide the following:

• Orthotics: One of the most popular bunion treatments is orthotics or shoe inserts. Orthotic devices are specially designed to provide cushioning and support while also realigning your big toe. They can also help with the pain and discomfort.

• Injections: If pain is your main complaint, injections may provide relief right away. An injection near the joint of the bunion can help reduce inflammation and allow you to revisit the New York social scene with ease.

• Surgery: If all else fails, surgery may be necessary to correct a bunion. Bunions are not considered a medical emergency, but they do affect your ability to live and work normally, so it's best to start bunion treatment as soon as possible.

No more bunions

We hope we’ve given you a good overview of bunions and how they can be treated, as well as some helpful tips to help alleviate foot pain. Now you can rejoin the New York social scene in your best high heels! If bunions have been bothering you and interfering with your daily schedule, call a board-certified podiatrist near me like Dr. Suzanne Levine. Millennium Podiatry can get you back on track to a virtually pain-free life in New York City.