A sore and inflamed big toe joint is likely a sign of a bunion. If you’re noticing a red, bony bump at the base of your big toe that causes you discomfort, Annapolis Foot & Ankle Center, with locations in Annapolis, Stevensville, and Glen Burnie, Maryland, provides integrative care. Our podiatrists offer the latest bunion treatments, including minimally invasive bunion surgery. Find out how our experts can help you get back on your feet.
Why Do I Have Bunions?
Bunions are progressive joint issues that develop slowly over an extended period. This common deformity leads to a permanent change in the shape of your joint as your big toe gets pushed out of alignment.
Improper footwear contributes to bunion development. When you wear high heels or pointy shoes, your big toe can’t lie flat and straight. If you regularly wear shoes with a narrow toe box, your big toe eventually stays in an abnormal position as the joint changes shape.
Ill-fitting shoes aren’t the only thing that can cause bunions. The likelihood of developing bunions is also greater if you inherited faulty or weak joints, suffered foot trauma or injury, or have arthritic conditions.
Additionally, sometimes similar bony bumps develop near your baby toe for the same reasons. These are known as bunionettes or tailor’s bunions.
Bunion Signs and Symptoms
Bunions don’t always cause pain or discomfort, especially in the early stages, but you still need treatment to prevent progression.
As the joint deformity worsens, your toe stiffens, causing a decreased range of motion in the forefoot. The more severe the bunion becomes, the more likely you are to experience the following symptoms:
- Throbbing or intense discomfort
- Swelling and inflammation
- Redness and soreness
Choosing a Bunion Treatment
Because bunions lead to friction from shoes, you are more likely to struggle with calluses and corns, which can add to your discomfort. If you’re experiencing even minor bunion symptoms and are looking for a bunion treatment, Annapolis Foot & Ankle Center’s exceptional podiatrists can help.
Thinking About Bunion Surgery: Exploring Your Treatment Options with Our Annapolis Podiatrist
Before taking a surgical approach, your podiatrist may recommend conservative therapies to help alleviate your symptoms, such as resting your feet and wearing well-fitting shoes with a roomy toe box. They may also suggest custom orthotics to ensure you have the support you need and to reposition the misaligned joint.
Your Annapolis Foot & Ankle Center specialist may also recommend using anti-inflammatory medications, cold packs, or localized cortisone injections to help you manage your pain and reduce associated inflammation.
However, if you have a more severe bunion deformity that just isn’t responsive to conservative treatments, bunion surgery may be the best solution to relieve your pain and restore your mobility. Our experienced team recommends a minimally invasive surgical option whenever possible, which results in fewer complications and faster recovery times than traditional surgery. After a thorough examination, we can determine the best surgical approach to meet your needs and accommodate your foot’s anatomy.
