Surgery is the only option to treat a bunion after it has formed. A rotation of the bone causes the bump on the side of the foot, and bunion surgery repositions the bone to rectify the problem. However, it does not mean that every bunion requires surgery.
In my Houston podiatry practice, I see a wide range of bunions, from seemingly mild bunions that are excruciatingly painful to severely distorted bunions that haven’t caused any discomfort. The therapy for a bunion is based on how much pain it causes and how much it restricts you.
A bunion causes two types of pain: deep discomfort in the toe joint and pain where the bunion rubs against the shoe. When the pain is in a joint, a custom orthotic is used to manage the function and pressure. The orthotic also eliminates the deforming forces that cause the bunion to worsen over time. Many people pick this treatment option to avoid or postpone future surgery.
It is tough to wear shoes comfortably when you have pain caused by the bunion’s hump. A bunion pad might help cushion the bunion in some circumstances. In certain circumstances, foot surgery is the only way to get rid of a bunion. Bunion surgery will minimize the deformity and allow you to wear your shoes more easily in the future.
Bunions will get worse over time, so now is the best time to get them checked. Dr. Shobowale, a Houston podiatrist and bunion surgeon, will examine your foot and make the best advice for treating your bunion so that you can achieve your goals.
