Get the scoop on bunions, what they are and what you can do about them.

Bunions are a common and painful deformity that can cause a bony protrusion at the outer base of the big toe. It can make wearing shoes particularly painful, and you may find that activities cause an aching pain. If you have bunions or suspect that you might, our Fredericksburg, VA and Stafford, VA, podiatrists are happy to answer any questions you might have. In the meantime, here are some frequently asked questions about bunions.

What is a bunion?  

Bunions are hard, bony protrusions that usually develop at the base of the big toe at the joint. Bunions develop gradually, so you may not even notice them at first; however, when too much pressure is placed on the joint, this can lead to a bunion.  

What are the symptoms of a bunion?  

Since symptoms are subtle, it can take years to recognize that you have a bunion. While a bunion can develop on the smaller toe joints (known as bunionettes), it most commonly affects the big toe joint (known as the metatarsophalangeal or MTP joint).  

Over time, you may notice that the big toe leans inwards on the smaller toes. Pain is usually the most common symptom of a bunion. You may notice that the joint aches or hurts when walking around or after wearing poorly fitted shoes. Those who wear high heels or shoes with pointed toes are more likely to aggravate bunions. The joint may also turn red and swollen. As the bunion progresses, a callus may form on the joint from rubbing against shoes.  

How is a bunion treated?  

Initial bunion treatment is relatively conservative, and our Fredericksburg, VA, foot and ankle team will focus on the way to manage your bunions through simple lifestyle changes and home care. These treatment options may include,   

• Pain relievers and anti-inflammatory medications 
• Ice
• Splinting or bracing the bunion 
• Stretching and strengthening exercises
• Resting 
• Wearing properly fitted and supportive footwear
• Staying away from high heels 
• Custom shoe inserts 

If home care isn’t alleviating your bunion pain, it’s time to see a podiatrist. Untreated bunions will continue to grow, leading to severe pain and deformity of the joint and big toe.  

Do I need surgery to treat my bunion?  

Most people won’t need surgery; however, because of the progressive nature of a bunion, it’s a good idea to visit your doctor if symptoms get worse or if anything changes.  

A bunionectomy is usually performed when other nonsurgical treatment options have been used but haven’t alleviated pain and other symptoms. Those with severe, daily pain that affects their quality of life may want to discuss the pros and cons of bunion surgery with one of our foot and ankle specialists.  

Don’t let bunions impact your daily life and activities. Our Fredericksburg, VA and Stafford, VA, podiatrists can craft a treatment plan that helps you get your bunion pain under control and slows its progression. To schedule an appointment, call Rappahannock Foot and Ankle Specialists at (540) 371-2724 or (540) 720-0674.