Treating Painful Bunions

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One of the most common deformities treated by podiatrists is the bunion, with nearly a quarter of the population between the ages of 17-65 suffering to some degree with this deformity. After age 65, that percentage jumps to almost 40% of all individuals having at least one bunion, so chances are very good that you’ll have one. A bunion will most often form on the big toe, but a similar condition can also affect the little toe. In the beginning stages, a bunion may not cause any pain or discomfort so many people forego treatment until the pain starts and the treatment thereby becomes more complicated.

As a bunion worsens over time, bursitis and arthritis can become an issue and chronic pain may set in. It can also be more difficult to find appropriate shoes that don’t rub on the bunion possibly causing blisters and corns and additional pain and discomfort.

Treatment for Bunions

Bunions tend to worsen over time, and do not get better by themselves because you are actually experiencing a bone deformity. Your foot care professional will work with you to release the pressure on the joint and decrease any pain with some of the following treatments:

  • Night splint—This device is worn at bedtime and is used to pull the big toe into alignment.
  • Custom made orthotic inserts—These shoe inserts are used to optimally reposition the foot and can help to stabilize the big toe joint.
  • Strength and flexibility exercises—Preventing stiffness in the toe joints will help keep the joints flexible and decrease the likelihood of arthritis or bursitis, which often complicates bunion pain and discomfort.
  • Properly fitted shoes—Wear comfortable and supportive shoes that have ample room in the toe box to accommodate the bunion without rubbing. The extra room also provides space for any required orthotic inserts.

If you are experiencing complications with poorly treated bunions, your foot doctor has the right experience to relieve your bunion pain. At E.J. Nemet Podiatry in Twinsburg,  E.J. Nemet, DPM, treats a variety of foot and ankle conditions, including sports injuries, pediatric foot problems, diabetic foot complications, nerve disorders, and toenail and skin conditions. With advanced technologies and a dedicated staff, Dr. Nemet provides expert and compassionate care to patients in the Twinsburg and Beachwood areas. To contact us or to schedule an appointment, please call (234) 212-9940.

Common Foot ConditionsE.J. NEMET DPM, LLC