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Bunions

Center for Podiatric Medicine

Podiatrists & Foot and Ankle Surgeons located in Chicago, Schaumburg, Elmhurst, Lombard, IL & Highland, IN

Bunions are among the most common conditions treated by podiatric surgeons. If that bony bump at the base of your big toe is red, swollen, and inflamed, schedule an evaluation at the Center for Podiatric Medicine in the Chicagoland area to begin treatment with one of the board-certified podiatrists. With three convenient Illinois locations in the River North neighborhood of Chicago, Schaumburg, and Lombard, you have an office nearby to get the bunion care you need. Book your appointment online or over the phone.

Bunions

Why do bunions develop?

A bunion is an actual deviation and change in the joint at the base of your big toe. It forms when your big toe gets pushed out of alignment and squished into your smaller toes. Usually, genetics are the underlying cause, but shoes and activities contribute to worsening the deformity and causing pain.

While snug shoes are often a common denominator when it comes to bunions, they’re not the only thing to blame. Your bunion might be a result of:

  • Inherited foot shape
  • Arthritis
  • Injury

Bunions are progressive, meaning they’re only going to get worse over time. If your bunion is starting to display symptoms, including pain, it’s time to have it evaluated.

What are the symptoms of bunions?

Bunions cause all kinds of different issues. After all, your toe joint winds up changing shape. You might notice that your big toe is stiff and has limited movement the more your bunion progresses. Bunions can also lead to:

  • Inflammation and pain
  • Redness
  • Tenderness
  • Corns
  • Calluses

The longer you go without proper medical intervention, the higher your chances of serious bunion discomfort that can make even the roomiest pair of shoes feel unbearably painful. Before bunions start lowering your quality of life, get started on treatment at the Center for Podiatric Medicine.

How are bunions treated?

Treating a bunion begins with finding ways to relieve your symptoms and help you return to your work and daily activities with no limitations. Your bunion treatment plan may include:

  • Custom orthotics
  • Specialized padding
  • Strapping and taping
  • Shoe modifications
  • Physical therapy
  • Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)

If conservative measures aren’t enough, or if your bunion pain continues to worsen, the team might recommend surgery. Bunion surgery, known as a bunionectomy, is tailored to your specific joint displacement. This procedure can involve realigning your toe joint, repairing bones, or removing damaged tissues.

Schedule your bunion evaluation at the Center for Podiatric Medicine today. Click on the online scheduler or call any location directly.

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