You may think that bunions are a problem of the elderly, or perhaps for only women who wear very tight shoes. Yet every day, our podiatrists see patients of all ages, both men and women, who come to Your Next Step for relief from the pain of bunions.

What is a Bunion?

When the bone or tissue of the big toe is pushed against the next toe, a bump known as a bunion forms on the joint. This abnormal pressure may be caused by your shoe choice, your gait, arthritis, injury or even your genetic foot type.

Sometimes a corn or callus will form on the bunion with reddened and sore skin. Bunions can really be painful as they rub against your shoes and can result in restricted movement of the big toe.

Diagnosis and Treatment

At Your Next Step, Dr. Eric Ricefield, Dr. Mark Yagodich and Dr. Aliza V. Eisen’s first choices for treatment are conservative or non-invasive measures, including:

• Icing and rest to relieve soreness and inflammation.
• Change shoes – look for comfortable shoes with lots of space in the toe box. Avoid high heels as these place too much pressure on toe joints.
• Medication – anti-inflammatory medications such as naproxen and ibuprofen can reduce inflammation, and acetaminophen will help relieve pain.
• Cortisone injections will also help reduce pain and swelling.
• Taping and padding the toes and ball of the foot can reduce pain and stress on the bunion.
• Padded shoe inserts or orthotics help to redistribute pressure evenly over your foot and can prevent bunion growth.

When to Consider Surgery

If your ability to walk or enjoy normal activities is still limited even after we’ve tried conservative treatments, it’s time to discuss a surgical solution.

Bunion surgery will return your toe to its correct position so that pain and discomfort are relieved. Each patient’s situation is unique, and our board certified foot surgeons will discuss all options with you based on your specific needs. This type of surgery is usually done on an outpatient basis.

Call Us for a Consultation

If you suffer from bunion pain, don’t delay – call our office today for a consultation appointment. We will carefully examine your foot and toes and take measurements to analyze if range of motion is impacted. We can take x-rays right here in our Ardmore and Paoli, PA offices to assess the severity of the bunion and its cause.

We also have an in-office shoe store located in our Ardmore office. Our store offers many brands in fashionable styles with a roomier toe box to relieve bunion pain, particularly after bunion surgery.