Bunions

Relief for Painful Big Toe Joint Misalignments

A bunion is a bony bump that forms at the base of the big toe, caused by a misalignment of the toe joint. As the bunion progresses, it can lead to pain, swelling, difficulty wearing shoes, and even changes in how you walk. At our podiatry clinic, we provide both non-surgical and surgical treatment options to relieve discomfort and correct alignment—so you can move comfortably again.

What Is a Bunion?

Bunions (also called hallux valgus) develop when the big toe drifts inward toward the other toes, pushing the joint at the base of the toe outward. Over time, the joint becomes more prominent and inflamed, and the surrounding structures are strained.

Common signs of bunions include:

  • A visible bump on the side of the big toe

  • Pain or tenderness around the joint, especially in tight shoes

  • Swelling, redness, or stiffness at the base of the toe

  • Corns or calluses from overlapping toes

  • Limited toe motion or difficulty walking

Bunions can worsen without treatment, especially if caused or aggravated by footwear, activity, or hereditary foot structure.

What Causes Bunions?

  • Inherited foot structure or biomechanics

  • Flat feet or unstable arches

  • Wearing narrow or high-heeled shoes

  • Joint conditions like arthritis

  • Previous foot injuries

How We Treat Bunions

We offer a comprehensive approach to managing bunions—focusing first on non-invasive solutions, with surgery considered when conservative care is no longer effective.

Non-Surgical Treatments

  • Padding and taping to reduce pressure and reposition the toe

  • Custom orthotics to improve foot mechanics and slow progression

  • Shoe recommendations that offer more space and support

  • Anti-inflammatory medications to reduce swelling and discomfort

  • Activity modifications to avoid aggravating the joint

Bunion Surgery (Bunionectomy)

When pain persists or the deformity interferes with daily life, surgical correction may be recommended. Options include:

  • Realigning the toe joint through bone cuts (osteotomies)

  • Removing the bony bump

  • Joint fusion or stabilization for severe or arthritic cases

  • Minimally invasive techniques, when appropriate, for reduced downtime

We’ll guide you through every step—from diagnosis and imaging to recovery and rehabilitation.

Don’t Let a Bunion Slow You Down

Bunions are progressive and won’t go away on their own—but with the right care, you can relieve pain, prevent worsening, and restore natural foot function.

Schedule a consultation today to explore your options for bunion relief—no referral needed.