If you have bunions in Oviedo, Lake Mary, and Orlando, FL, Foot & Ankle Specialists of Orlando is here to help. Our podiatrists Dr. Timothy Mason, Dr. Jason Hancock, and Dr. Travis Johnson are skilled at diagnosing and treating all foot ailments. Bunions can be painful and unsightly, but can usually be helped with some conservative, at-home treatment. It's leaving bunions untreated that leads to more complications. Keep reading about bunions and come see us to start feeling better!
What are bunions?
A bunion is a bony bump that occurs when there is uneven weight distribution on the toe joint, usually the big toe. Bunions are much more common in women because of footwear that constricts the toes. The big toe is forced over towards the other toes and over time this will deform the joint and cause a bunion. Some bunions are small and harmless, but bunions can be painful and unsightly the bigger they get.
Treating bunions
It's important to see a podiatrist as soon as you notice discomfort in your toe, pain, redness, or swelling in the toe joint c. Bunions in Oviedo, Lake Mary, and Orlando, FL, can be treated by adjusting your footwear so your arch is supported and your toes have room to wiggle. Your podiatrist may also recommend:
- Wearing foot orthotics
- Icing the toe
- Anti-inflammatory medications
In some cases, if more conservative measures don't relieve your pain, your podiatrist may recommend surgery to remove the bunion.
Long-term effects of untreated bunions
If you leave a bunion untreated it won't get better on its own, it will only increase in size. You can have trouble wearing shoes and walking without pain the bigger the bunion gets. When you have a bunion, it's common for calluses and blisters to form on the other toes that are forced together. The longer you go without treatment, the more likely you will suffer permanent deformities to the toes and feet.
If you're concerned about the long-term effects of a bunion, you should be evaluated by a podiatrist. Dr. Mason, Dr. Hancock, and Dr. Johnson are your providers at Foot & Ankle Specialists of Orlando. When you have bunions in Oviedo, Lake Mary, and Orlando, FL, contact us for an appointment at 407-365-9511.