3 Important Things to Know About Your Bunion

Do you have a painful bump on your big toe? Is your big toe out of line with your other toes? It could be a bunion. Bunions are deformities caused by your big toe pushing outward, often causing pain and discomfort when you walk. Early treatment methods aim to relieve the pressure and pain caused by the bunion and stop it from progressing. This treatment often includes protective padding, removal of corns and calluses, assessing footwear, considering orthotic devices, and exercises that stimulate joint mobility.

Often, the bunion has progressed past these conservative treatments, and needs to be surgically dealt with. Bunion surgery, or a bunionectomy, removes the bunion and realigns your toe. If you’re dealing with a bunion or considering a bunionectomy, read these helpful tips to know what’s coming up for you:

• Take care of the bunion quick

The longer you let a bunion develop, the more advanced the surgical technique may be. A more advanced surgical technique can also come with a more extensive recovery period.

• Recovery can take a while

Healing is part of any surgery’s process. Typically, you can head home the same day as your bunion surgery. Your foot will be fitted with a bootie that you’ll wear for 3 to 4 weeks, though full healing can take up to 8. Pain can typically be managed with an over-the-counter painkiller, but some require something a little more heavy-duty. Communicate with your podiatrist on your pain level. The healing period usually comes with bruises, swelling, and some stiffness. You can work these out with massages and stretches, and depending on the severity, physical therapy.

• Care for your feet to prevent recurrence

Bunions are considered hereditary, so even after surgery, you could still be genetically prone to getting another. Wearing proper-fitting shoes and avoiding injuries of your big toe are good ways to prevent another bunion. Always keep in touch with your foot doctor to prevent any recurrence or any further complications.

Other bunion facts:

• Bunions can be hereditary
• Bunions are common in women who wear high heels or ill-fitting shoes.
• Nearly ¼ of adults develop bunions under the age of 65
• 36% of people over 65 have them bunions

Not all bunions are created equal, and each can require a different type of care. Our trained staff of podiatry professionals can answer any questions you have. If you have a bunion, contact our podiatry team at Connecticut Foot Care Centers, LLC. Our expert team of foot doctors maintain the highest level of accreditation and stay abreast of ongoing trends in podiatry.