Bunions are one of the most common foot disorders. They can be quite unattractive and bothersome if left untreated. It’s a large bony bump that forms on the side of your big toe joint. Bunions develop over time. The pressure exerted on the big toe joint causes misalignment of the big toe. The misalignment causes the big toe to lean toward the next big toe.

This deformity is found to be more common in women as they wear shoes that have narrow toe boxes that overlap or squeezes the toes together. This overlapping can cause severe pain, redness and inflammation on the sides of the big toe. Other factors that might increase the risk of bunion formation include abnormal bone structure (hereditary), arthritis or trauma.

To minimize your chances of developing bunions, it is essential that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist. A timely check and a proper diagnosis can help treat bunions more effectively.

Here are some early treatment measures to help you get on the road to recovery:

• One of the most effective ways to treat early bunions is foot comfort. Wear shoes that have soft soles (leather), broad toe space and wide insteps. Proper footwear can help reduce pressure over the bunion. Avoid wearing tight-fitted shoes, especially those ultra-heels and narrow-toed shoes.
• You may use protective pads to help cushion the bunion. This should relieve pressure on the affected area.
• You may take proper medication as prescribed by a certified podiatrist to get relief from the pain and swelling caused by bunions.
• Apply ice on the affected areas several times a day to help reduce swelling.
• If the above treatments do not improve the state of your bunions, it’s may be time to discuss surgery.

If you notice any early symptoms of bunions, consult your podiatrist for evaluation and treatment options. At Joseph Stuto, DPM we can help provide the best podiatric care and treatment for all your foot and ankle needs. Our foot doctors Dr. Joseph C. Stuto and Dr. Joseph A. Stuto can help you win the fight against bunions. Call us and schedule an appointment at our two convenient locations in Brooklyn: (718) 567-1403 (Brooklyn), or (718) 624-7537 (Brooklyn Heights).