Bunions Specialist

What are bunions?

A bunion is a swollen bump that develops on the outside edge of your big toe. Bunions form when the bones at the front of your foot move out of place due to abnormal foot mechanics or general wear-and-tear. Over time, those changes cause the joint at the base of your big toe to swell and bulge outward.

If you have a bunion that doesn’t respond to ice, anti-inflammatory medication or changing your footwear, make an appointment with Dr. Duarte at Manhattan Orthopedics.

What are the symptoms of bunions?

Symptoms of bunions include:

• A swollen bump on the outer edge of your big toe
• Corns or calluses
• Redness and swelling
• Pain in your big toe

You might also experience difficulty wiggling or bending your toe as the bunion grows.

When should I visit a foot and ankle surgeon about bunions?

Make an appointment with Dr. Duarte if you have a bunion that causes ongoing foot or toe pain. That’s especially true if you experience a decreased range of motion or can’t find shoes that fit comfortably because of the bunion.

Who is at risk of experiencing bunions?

Several factors may increase your risk of experiencing a bunion, including:

• Wearing high heels or other similar types of shoes
• Wearing shoes that are too narrow or that push your toes together
• Having an inflammatory condition, like rheumatoid arthritis
• Having a structural abnormality, like flat feet or high arches

If you have a bunion, it’s essential to take action. You’re more likely to experience other foot-related conditions without treatment, like a hammertoe or bursitis.

How are bunions diagnosed?

Dr. Duarte reviews your medical records and asks about your symptoms to diagnose a bunion. Then, he examines your foot. Most bunions are apparent, but Dr. Duarte might also order X-rays to assess the alignment of the bones in the front of your foot.

How are bunions treated?

Treatment of bunions depends on several factors, including your age, the size of the bunion, and the severity of your symptoms. Usually, Dr. Duarte recommends conservative and minimally invasive treatments like:

• Wearing supportive and comfortable shoes
• Applying ice
• Taking anti-inflammatory medication
• Bunion pads
• Custom orthotics

If conservative treatments don’t provide relief, you might be a candidate for a bunionectomy (bunion surgery). During bunion surgery, Dr. Duarte uses special tools to remove the swollen tissue around your toe and realign the bones at the front of your foot.

To explore the various treatment options for bunions, make an appointment at Manhattan Orthopedics by calling the nearest office or booking online today.