Big Deal About Bunions
Okay — what is the big deal about bunions? We’re sure you’ve heard about bunion surgery or maybe even all of the pain and discomfort they may cause. Bunions may not have the best reputation, but there are still many things to learn about them. Some things are true — and other statements are myths. Let’s talk about them today.
A bunion is a type of progressive toe deformity. When you see this term, it means that the bone is out of alignment. With this misalignment, time can make the condition progress or worsen. It is one of the significant concerns. Without intervention, the misalignment can cause the toe deformity to become rigid. Then, the only next step is surgery.
Here are a few myths about bunions:
They are always painful.
Bunions don’t always cause pain, but it doesn’t mean you should ignore the condition. To keep things pain-free, visit a podiatrist to be proactive. Adding cushions to your shoes and avoiding narrow toe boxes are ways to keep the pain away. Be open to other solutions, too.
The only solution is surgery.
Surgery is not the only option. In fact, it’s the last resort. We encourage patients to contact us as soon as they think they have detected a bunion. If bunions are flexible, there are many more ways to address the toe deformity. It is often a bump alongside the big toe joint. Once it becomes rigid, surgery is the next and best option.
A bunion will go away on its own.
We wish we could say this is true, but it’s not. We’re talking about bone structure, and it is much more complex. A bunion will not go away on its own. It needs intervention — whether it’s adding cushioning or scheduling surgery. The toe deformity will continue to progress over time. It’s best to have a podiatrist walking alongside you during this time.
Bunions are a big deal because we know how they can progress and cause our patients pain. The truth is that podiatrists are the experts in this area and can provide the best solutions for managing this toe deformity. We discourage you from trying to figure it out alone. We’re here to help.
The New Jersey Podiatric Physicians & Surgeons Group has almost 30 foot and ankle surgeons, podiatrists, and doctors. With more than 30 locations, from Newark, NJ, to Cape May, NJ, we value convenience and excellent service for our patients. We offer compassionate, cutting-edge care across our network, and we specialize in treating the following conditions: ankle and sports injuries, heel pain and plantar fasciitis, bunions, hammertoes, corns and calluses, ingrown toenails, diabetic foot care complications, children’s foot problems, skin conditions of the feet, and fungal nails. Our group is among the best foot and ankle providers in the country. To schedule an appointment, first find a podiatrist in your area.
