Managing Bunions: Treatment Options and Solutions

What is a Bunion?

• A common foot deformity affecting the big toe joint
• More prevalent in women than men
• Strong genetic component
• Can be influenced by walking patterns and footwear choices

Common Symptoms

• Visible bony bump at base of big toe

• Joint pain that may:

• Come and go

• Feel achy or stiff

• Cause tingling or burning

• Swelling around joint area

• Redness from shoe friction

• Callus formation

• Toe overlap issues

Conservative Treatment Options

Footwear Modifications

• Choose shoes with adequate toe room
• Avoid tight or constrictive footwear
• Select appropriate width sizing

Support Methods

• Protective padding
• Therapeutic taping
• Toe splinting
• Custom orthotics
• Toe separators

Self-Care

• Targeted foot exercises
• Specific stretching routines
• Pain management techniques

Surgical Intervention

Consider surgery when:

• Conservative treatments prove insufficient
• Daily activities are significantly affected
• Pain becomes persistent

Surgical Process

• Involves joint realignment

• Soft tissue adjustment

• Bone fixation using screws/k-wire

• Allows immediate walking with special footwear

• Results in improved:

• Joint function

• Stability

• Aesthetic appearance