Bunions Treatment Kansas City, MO

Bunion Symptoms

Bunion symptoms can include a visible bump at the base of your big toe, which may become swollen, red, or sore. This area might develop a burning sensation, and you may notice calluses or corns where your toes overlap.

Over time, you could experience difficulty moving your big toe and discomfort when walking, particularly in tight shoes. Symptoms vary greatly, from mild to severe, and while not all bunions cause discomfort, some can be quite painful.

If you have these symptoms, it is recommended to see an orthopedic foot specialist here at Orthopedic Health of Kansas City.

What Causes Bunions?

Bunions stem from an imbalance in your foot, causing the big toe to lean towards the others and gradually altering the bone structure of the foot.

This imbalance can be influenced by several factors, such as wearing tight shoes, especially high heels, inheriting certain foot structures that are prone to bunions, or having conditions like arthritis. Previous foot injuries can also contribute to bunions.

However, these factors only increase risk and don’t necessarily mean you’ll develop bunions.

Treatment for Bunions

When it comes to treating bunions, the goal is to relieve the pain and stop further progression of the deformity. Depending on the severity of your condition, your doctor may suggest these options:

• Shoe changes – Wearing padded shoes with a wide toe box can help reduce the pressure on the bunion
• Padding, taping, or splinting – Your doctor might show you how to use special pads or tapes to reduce the stress on your bunion, which can help relieve pain
• Medication – Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), like ibuprofen, can help reduce pain and inflammation. In some cases, cortisone injections might be used
• Physical therapy – Certain exercises might help maintain joint mobility and prevent stiffness
• Surgery – When non-surgical treatments aren’t effective and pain interferes with daily activities, foot surgery might be necessary. There are different surgical procedures that aim to correct the deformity, relieve pain, and improve foot function