Bunions

What is a bunion?

A bunion is a deformity that occurs in your big toe joint — a similar issue, a bunionette, develops in your baby toe. This deformity is known for causing a visibly bony bump at the base of your big toe that stems from your big toe leaning in toward your smaller toes, instead of lying flat and straight.

A bunion, medically known as hallux valgus, can occur if you have overly high arches or flat feet. You’re especially more prone to permanent changes in your toe joint if you frequently wear pointy or snug-fitting shoes that push your toe out of its proper alignment. Because bunions are progressive and are only going to get worse, you should have it evaluated as soon as you start noticing changes in your toe joint shape.

When should I see a podiatrist for a bunion?

The caring podiatrists at Oklahoma Foot and Ankle Institute welcome you to schedule an evaluation early on in bunion development — no need to wait until you’re in agonizing pain. It’s particularly important to see your dedicated podiatrist if your bunion is associated with:

• Toe stiffness
• Numbness or redness
• Limited toe movement
• Foot pain or discomfort
• Corns or calluses

Before your bunion starts impacting your daily life and keeping you from doing the things you enjoy, get started on your personalized bunion treatment plan.

How are bunions treated?

Treating bunions often begins with conservative therapies to relieve discomfort and resolve inflammation. Your bunion treatment plan from Oklahoma Foot and Ankle Institute is likely going to include several of these options:

• Physical therapy
• Corticosteroid injections
• Padding or splinting and taping
• Specialized shoes or custom orthotics
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)

But the only way to permanently restore your joint function and correct your toe deformity is through surgery. The specially trained foot and ankle surgeons at Oklahoma Foot and Ankle Institute use minimally invasive measures to realign your toe joint and if needed, remove damaged tissues. You can expect effective bunion relief no matter which treatment is right for you.

Schedule your bunion consultation at Oklahoma Foot and Ankle Institute today. You can request your appointment online or over the phone.