Bunions can be irritating, frustrating and downright disheartening. With every step putting pressure on the growth, bunion pain can sometimes become intense, keeping you off of your feet for extended periods of time. However, with help from your Jersey City, NJ podiatrist, there is a light at the end of the tunnel. Your doctor can help you sort through various treatment options to determine which will work best in bringing relief to your bunion pain.
What is a bunion?
A bunion is a bony growth located at the base of the big toe. As the bunion grows, it pushes the big toe to the outside of the foot, forcing it towards the smaller toes. This deforms the foot and causes the bones and muscles to grow into a misaligned state. Due to their location, bunions take your body’s weight with every step, making them incredibly painful. Though bunions form slowly over a long period of time, they can become painful quickly. Women are more at risk for bunions than men though both sexes experience this condition. Additionally, you inherit the type of foot you have, making bunion-prone feet passed down genetically.
How are bunions treated?
Bunion growth is known to be encouraged by narrow, tight or high-heeled shoes. Sometimes, treating a bunion is as simple as switching the shoes you wear. Wearing a flat shoe with a wide enough toe box to accommodate the full width of the foot helps relieve bunion pain. Over-the-counter medications and icing the foot several times a day also relieve pain and swelling. However, many people get so fed up with bunion pain or have such serious cases that they opt to have bunion surgery. Bunion surgery removes the bunion itself and, if necessary, realigns the bones and connective tissues in the feet to function properly.
How can my podiatrist help?
Your Jersey City, NJ podiatrist uses a combination of a physical examination, imaging techniques such as x-rays or MRI and a collection of your medical and personal history to diagnose bunions. After diagnosis, your doctor will work with you to determine the best treatment option for your situation.
For more information on bunion pain and treatment, please contact Dr. Edward Tjoe, DPM in Jersey City, NJ. Call (201) 984-0231 to schedule your consultation to beat bunion pain for good.
