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Bunions Often Become More Painful

A bunion is a bony bump that forms on the side of the big toe that gradually pushes the big toe over and into the other toes. Initially, a bunion isn’t very painful, but as the condition progresses, the pressure and rubbing can cause skin condition like blisters and corns and can also lead to painful overlapping toes.

Other bunion symptoms and complications include the following:

  • Pain, swelling, and redness around the big toe joint
  • Corns and calluses are likely to form in response to bunion pressure
  • Hammertoes and bunions seem to go together
  • Ingrown toenails are more common when you have a bunion

The faulty foot mechanics that causes bunions is thought to be due to a genetic predisposition of instability in the joints. People with untreated flat feet are also more susceptible to developing bunions because of this increased joint instability.

Treatments for bunions include:

  • Cushioning pads and orthotic inserts to relieve pressure
  • A specially made night splint can be worn while sleeping to pull the big toe back into alignment
  • Wear shoes with a proper fit and wide toe box
  • Don’t wear high heels, or only very occasionally, if you want to avoid many foot problems
  • Perform foot and toe exercises to increase strength and flexibility

In severe cases, it may be necessary to modify or remove part of the bunion bump. No matter what the severity, it is important to have a trustworthy podiatrist to treat your bunion. Dr. Eric Ricefield, Dr. Mark Yagodich and Dr. Aliza V. Eisen, podiatrists at Your Next Step, are dedicated to helping patients achieve healthier feet and ankles. They provide high-quality podiatric care to patients in the greater Philadelphia area. Our offices are conveniently located in Ardmore, Paoli, Woodlyn, and Downingtown, PA. For more information or to schedule an appointment, contact us today.

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