How to Tell if You Have a Bunion

This foot condition gets its fair share of publicity due to its frequency among female celebrities. Often blamed on the sky-high heels that women wear, this deformity is actually a misalignment of the bones typically due to poor foot structure. The protrusion can make wearing your favorite shoes an uncomfortable venture, and if the large toe crowds the others, loss of mobility and hammertoe can occur.

Other factors that can lead to this enlargement include injury and arthritis. In both instances, the way that you walk can be affected. This change in the distribution of weight across the feet increases the likelihood of this foot problem.

Shoes don’t cause this deformity, but wearing footwear that places additional pressure on the forefoot and toes can aggravate and hasten its development. A wide toe box and custom orthotics are often recommended for conservative treatment.

Not Just a Bump: Joints, Soft Tissue, and Skin Too

The most visible sign is the bump, but the foot is complex and so is this deformity. The joint and tissue around the area can be swollen and painful. You may also notice reddening of the skin. Bursitis, the inflammation of the cushions (bursae) that are located around the joints, can also be associated.

Arthritis will compound your symptoms. Joint deterioration is impacted by this condition and pain can be severe. A reduction in the range of motion of the affected toe is likely.

Is the pain getting on your nerves?

signs and symptoms of bunions As you might imagine, a bony enlargement next to the big toe can cause problems beyond the fit of your shoe. The feet are full of nerve endings, and their irritation can result in loss of feeling or a tingly sensation.

Even the skin shows signs of trouble when a bunion is present. Friction between the toes causes calluses (thickened areas of skin) and corns. This build-up can also develop at the bottom of the toe.

Bunions: Prevention to Avoid a Permanent Fixture

Once you have this condition, it can only be reversed with surgery. While conservative measures can reduce pain and may slow its progression, surgical intervention is the only way to remove a bunion. The best way to avoid the pain of this deformity is to prevent its occurrence.

Shoes are the best defense for your feet. Choose styles with enough room for your toes. If your footwear presses into any part of your foot, problems can arise. Measure your feet regularly to ensure that you are selecting the proper size. Forcing your foot into a shoe will only lead to pain.

Have your feet evaluated by Drs. Joel Brook, Arroyo, and McClurkin today to learn more about your unique biomechanics. Uneven stress can be resolved with custom orthotics, and understanding your arch type can help you find the right type of shoe when you shop. Make an appointment online or by calling Dallas Podiatry Works in Plano at (972) 943-3323 or in Dallas at 972.853.7100.

The doctor has great “bedside manners” when talking to patients. Great staff and comfortable atmosphere.

Derrick W.

The staff at Dallas Podiatry Works could not have been more courteous, helpful, and professional in doing their job. They made me feel comfortable when I was there, which is certainly appreciated. They answered all the questions that I had and just made each visit the most pleasurable that it could be. I would highly recommend them to anyone needing this type of foot care.

Joseph B.

I would highly recommend Dr. Brook to anyone with foot problems–especially problems that stump other podiatrists. He really is very caring and very knowledgeable.

Jeannette H.

Dr. Joel Brook and the staff were nice and helpful. Though I was a new patient, I got right in as soon as they were open in my preferred location. They diagnosed the problem and provided medicines along with a perfect gel bandage so I could keep exercising while my toes healed. My toes already hurt less and look a little better each day. If I have future issues, I will be a repeat customer. Here’s hoping I don’t, but at least I know my feet are in good hands.

Meryl E.

I visited this office for an ingrown toe nail a few years ago. After seeing another doctor, who made it worse, he referred me to Dallas Podiatry Works. The doctor there was able to fix my problem. I’m not great with reviews, all I can tell you is that this doctor and staff will have you up and running or doing whatever it is you do in no time. You will be in great hands. You’d be a fool not to use this doctor. Now its time to visit him again for the other toe.

Google User

Been having bad ankle pains for 6 months was referred here and it was a great visit ladies in the front desk medical assistants and the Doctor were all very friendly and make you feel very comfortable.