Bunions are a common condition that affects about one in three Americans. If you have a bony bump next to your big toe, and it affects your mobility or quality of life, don’t wait to get treated. At Manhattan Orthopedics, experienced orthopedic and foot and ankle surgeon Guillermo Duarte, MD, offers complete care for bunions. After an exam and review of your medical records, he can develop a custom care plan that aligns with your needs. To make an appointment in Midtown Manhattan, Astoria, or Brooklyn in New York City, call the nearest office or book online today.
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.
Symptoms of bunions include:
You might also experience difficulty wiggling or bending your toe as the bunion grows.
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.
Several factors may increase your risk of experiencing a bunion, including:
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.
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.
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:
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.
