Bunions most often appear on the outside of the foot at the base of the big toe. Bunions appear as protrusions at this site and can cause the big toe to point towards the rest of the toes instead of being straight. While some people have bunions with no symptoms at all, some people develop uncomfortable symptoms, which makes bunion treatment necessary. If your bunions are an issue for more than just aesthetic reasons, it is very important that you seek treatment from a podiatrist.
Symptoms
The most common symptom associated with bunions is pain in the foot. The bunion can become red, sore, and swollen, particularly after you walk for a while or when you wear tight shoes. Some patients even feel a burning sensation at the bunion site. Bunions tend to get worse with time unless they are treated by a doctor.
Types of Bunions
There are a few types of bunions that you can get. Here is a quick summary:
- Large Bunion Bunions come in all shapes and sizes. Depending on the size of your bunion, it could be considered minor or large. If you have a large bunion, it could make purchasing suitable footwear difficult. It can also cause you to experience more symptoms than those who have small bunions.
- Tailor’s Bunion A tailor’s bunion develops on the pinky toe instead of the big toe. It is often called a bunionette. Tailor’s bunions can cause the pinky toe to change direction and a protrusion can develop in the area.
- Bunion with Hallux Limitus Also called hallux rigidus, a hallux limitus bunion limits flexibility in the foot, particularly at the big toe joint. The condition can cause jamming of the big toe, which can cause a bunion to form at the top of the big toe’s base joint (instead of on the side).
- Bunion with Skin Irritation Some people have other symptoms along with bunions. One example is skin irritation. This is most common in people who have bunions and wear closed or tight shoes. The tightness of the shoe and the protrusion at the big toe can cause friction and irritation of the skin. This can lead to redness and peeling skin as well as wounds. It is important to clean and moisturize your feet and take care of any skin issues so that you don’t develop a serious wound or an infection.
Treatment
Treatment for bunions can vary based on the size and symptoms you are experiencing. Conservative treatment always includes wearing comfortable and well-fitted shoes that have soft, supportive soles and low heels. Splinting or using bunion pads can also help relieve symptoms. In some cases, bunions can cause severe symptoms, which end up requiring surgery to remove or fix them.
Bunion Treatment in San Antonio, Boerne, Hondo, Floresville, Kenedy, Uvalde, and Live Oak, Texas
If you have bunions and they are causing uncomfortable symptoms, talk to a podiatrist about ways to find relief. The experts at The Podiatry Group of South Texas treat patients with all types of foot and ankle injuries and conditions, including all types of bunions.
To make an appointment, call our clinic most convenient to you. You can also request an appointment online.
