Bunion Specialist in Phoenix, Scottsdale, AZ
A bunion is a bony protuberance on the outer surface or at the base of the big toe. The major causes of bunions may be heredity and wearing of narrow ill-fitting shoes. The condition often results in swelling, pain around the big toe and discomfort while walking due to restricted movements of the big toe. Damien Richardson MD, MPH provides expert diagnosis and individualized non-operative and operative treatments for bunions in Phoenix, Scottsdale, AZ. Contact Dr. Richardson’s team for an appointment today!
What is a Bunion?
A bunion, also known as hallux valgus, is a bony protuberance that appears on the inner surface of the big toe when it angles toward the adjacent second toe. It is often accompanied by redness and swelling in this area attributed to inflammation of the local soft tissues from deformity and pressure typically from constrictive shoe wear.
What are the Common Causes of Bunions?
Bunions are common in women and tend to run in families (heredity). The major cause of bunions is prolonged wearing of ill-fitting shoes such as tight, narrow, and high-heeled shoes that compress the toes and exert excessive pressure while walking. The condition becomes worse and more painful as the bump grows bigger in size.
What are the Symptoms of Bunions?
The most common symptoms of bunions include:
- Swelling
- Pain and tenderness around the big toe
- Turning of the big toe towards the adjacent toe
- Change in the shape of the foot
- A bony mass at the joint surface of the big toe
- Pain and discomfort while walking
- Restricted movements of the big toe
How are Bunions Diagnosed?
Dr. Richardson can diagnose a bunion based on the following:
- Medical history
- Physical examination to evaluate the nature of the bunion
- X-rays to determine alignment of the bones and severity of bunion for purposes of diagnosis and type of intervention needed (non-operative or operative).
What are the Conservative Treatments for Bunions?
A bunion may be treated either by non-surgical or surgical methods.
The non-surgical treatment options include:
- Wearing broad-toed shoes that fit properly to reduce the compression of the toes
- Using bunion pads, cushions and splints to protect and alleviate pain Selecting well-fitted shoes that match the shape of your feet
- Medications such as over the counter non-steroidal inflammatory medications to help alleviate pain and associated symptoms
- Ice packs to reduce inflammation
What is the Surgical Treatment for Bunions?
The surgical method of correction of a bunion deformity is known as a bunionectomy. The goal of bunion surgery is to relieve pain by correcting the alignment of the big toe.
What are the Complications of Bunion Surgery?
As with all surgical procedures, bunionectomy may be associated with certain complications. Some of the surgical complications include infection, recurrence of the bunion, damage to the neighbouring nerves, bleeding, and unrelieved pain.
What is the Prognosis for Bunions?
Surgery to correct a symptomatic bunion can be highly successful. Always try to take care of the bunion at the initial stage by following post operative instructions and wearing accommodative shoes.
How are Bunions Prevented?
Avoid wearing poorly fitted shoes to prevent irritation and compression of the toes, which may lead to the growth and irritation of a bunion.
If you would like to have additional information on the treatment of bunions, please contact Damien Richardson MD, MPH, serving the communities of Phoenix, Scottsdale, AZ.
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