Bunions can hit anyone, at any age, though they’re slightly more common as you get older. Most people begin to notice bunion development in their 20s and 30s. Usually the result of a genetic trait that tends to run in families, your bunion may not cause any problems other than a distorted appearance. However, poor footwear choices can cause pain and the joint deterioration can become arthritic over time.
There’s plenty you can try to deal with bunions yourself, though when you need support, Errol Gindi D.P.M. is your choice for podiatrist in Valley Stream and Hicksville, New York. Dr. Gindi goes beyond over-the-counter solutions and ends your bunion pain for good.
Bunion signs and symptoms
The joint of your big toe is over the ball of your foot. It’s natural to have a slight outward “bump” in this location, but when a bunion starts to form, this bump becomes more dramatic. The upper bones of your big toe may be pressed inward toward your second toe.
The skin over a bunion can sometimes become red, swollen, and sore. The contacting surfaces between toes might develop corns and calluses and you could experience reduced mobility of the toe joint. Your bunion may hurt from time to time, or it could always cause pain. It’s also possible to develop bunionettes on your baby toes.
Bunions and footwear
The medical consensus is that poorly fitting shoes don’t cause bunions, but they can aggravate them and cause them to deteriorate faster. Often, bunion pain results from pressure and contact with ill-fitted shoes, while those who wear shoes with adequate room for their toes tend to suffer pain only when the joint becomes arthritic.
Treatment for bunions
It’s not surprising that the first-line treatment for bunions looks at your shoes. Choose comfortable shoes with plenty of room for your toes. Don’t pick a larger size, as that will potentially cause other foot problems. Instead, opt for a shoe that’s in your regular size. Avoid pointed footwear that presses your toes together.
Other treatments you can consider include:
- Inserts that help to position your foot within the shoe, such as over the counter orthotics or arch supports
- Use bunion pads to cushion the big toe joint when wearing shoes
- Over the counter pain medication may help if you have occasional bunion pain
- Cold compresses can reduce pain and swelling if bunion pain results from occasional overuse
- Lose weight to reduce overall pressure on your feet
Make an appointment with Dr. Gindi if your bunion doesn’t respond to home care, when the pain becomes constant, or when you can’t find suitable shoes. There are additional bunion treatments including splints, cortisone shots, corn and callus removal, physical therapy, and surgical approaches.
Contact Errol Gindi D.P.M. by phone or online to book appointments at the most convenient location. There’s no need to tolerate life with bunion pain. Schedule your consultation now.
