Bunion Treatment Services in Chicago & Wheeling IL
Bunions are lumps or bumps that appear on the side of the foot at the base of the big toe where the toe meets the rest of the foot. Less commonly, bunions can also form on the top of the toe joint, causing a bump to form without the characteristic “sideways” misalignment of the joint. Bunions can be very painful, and without care, they can cause issues with mobility.
You can receive expert treatment for painful bunions at your local Global Podiatry clinic in Chicago or Wheeling IL. The professional podiatrists at Global Podiatry will diagnose the condition and advise you on the best treatment plan to relieve your pain and restore greater mobility. There’s no reason you should have to live with the pain of bunions – we’re on hand to provide the best bunion treatment in Chicago – (Wheeling, IL) to give you lasting relief from the common condition.
Common Bunion Symptoms
The most common symptoms of a bunion are a change in the angle of the big toe (where it points inwards towards the second toe) and the formation of a hard bump on the side of the foot. As well as these changes to the position of the big toe and appearance of the foot, other symptoms of a bunion can include:
Swelling
Pain
Tenderness
Inflammation
Reduced movement
Redness
Calluses/corns
Hardened skin
Stiffness
The symptoms and appearance of a bunion are often enough for a podiatrist to diagnose the condition. A physical examination of the foot and more information about a patient’s medical history and health will also help with the diagnosis. In some instances, a podiatrist may order an x-ray. The x-ray can be useful to help determine the severity of a bunion as it provides a clear image of the structures of the foot.
Because bunions result in deformity of the toe joint, surgery is usually the best option to correct the bunion and restore the joint and the foot to a more natural shape. Several surgical techniques and approaches can be used to correct a bunion. During the procedure, an incision will be made near or over the joint, and the joint will be placed in its normal position and secured with pins or screws. A portion of bone may also need to be removed to enable the joint position to be properly restored. In some cases, the joint may be fused to keep it properly aligned with the rest of the foot. Swollen tissue may also be removed during the procedure.
Modern Bunion Surgery Techniques
Today’s surgical techniques enable quick recovery, and most patients can walk on the foot the same day their surgery is performed. For a fast and safe recovery after the procedure, it’s often advised that patients rest their feet for a couple of weeks and avoid driving and sports for a short time. Time off work may also be advised to encourage a successful recovery.
To get more information about podiatric surgical treatment for bunions in Chicago & Wheeling IL, please get in touch with Global Podiatry. Our expert podiatrists will be more than happy to answer your questions.
Non-Surgical Treatment for Bunions
For those who wish to avoid surgery, at least for the time being, nonsurgical options include the use of splints during sleep to help coax the toe into a more normal position, and custom orthotics to support the toe joint. Wearing comfortable shoes that provide plenty of room and fit properly is one of the best ways to manage bunion pain. Depending on the person and the severity of their bunion, either adding shoe inserts that provide padding or orthotics to reduce pressure on the bunion may help to relieve pain and stop the bunion getting worse. A podiatrist may also suggest that some patients wear toes spacers.
At Global Podiatry, we can supply custom orthotics that are tailored to the shape of your feet to provide relief from bunion pain. Our orthotics can also treat a wide range of other conditions, such as bursitis, arthritis and plantar fasciitis. Get in touch with us today to discuss your options for custom orthotics in Chicago & Wheeling IL.
Before and After – Bunion Treatment at Global Podiatry
Relieving Bunion Pain at Home
It’s not possible to remove a bunion at home, but some at-home treatments can reduce pain and increase comfort. You may be able to reduce bunion discomfort by:
Taking pain relief medications
Applying ice to the bunion
Using bunion pads
Losing weight
Avoiding high heels
Wearing wider and softer shoes
For patients experiencing persistent pain and pain that limits their activity, contacting a podiatrist for an examination is of the upmost importance. Diabetics and people with bunions that are getting worse should also book an appointment with a podiatrist as soon as possible.
What causes bunions to form?
The exact cause of bunions is unclear, but most medical research indicates bunions form as a result of both hereditary factors that determine the shape of the feet, as well as wearing shoes that bind the toes, causing the big toe to be pushed inward toward the other toes. Over time, this constant pressure can cause the joint to become deformed and even arthritic. There are multiple possible bunion complications, including painful conditions such as bursitis, metatarsalgia and hammertoe. The bunion can grow in size, potentially resulting in the big toe moving over or under the second toe and calluses developing. The longer a bunion is left without treatment, the worse it can become.
To prevent problems such as arthritis, inflammation and chronic pain that are common complications of bunions, it’s important to visit a podiatrist for professional treatment. A podiatrist will diagnose and treat the condition, as well as advise patients on the best ways to stop re-occurrences. It’s not always possible to prevent bunions, but the risk can be reduced by wearing wide toe shoes that support the shape of the foot without applying any pressure to it.
Contact Global Podiatry for Bunion Treatment in Chicago & Wheeling, IL
If you’re experiencing persistent pain in one or both of your feet or are suffering from limited mobility and suspect that you have a bunion, then it’s vital that you book an appointment with a podiatrist as soon as possible. Bunions won’t disappear by themselves; professional diagnosis and treatment is essential to relieve the pain permanently and get back to enjoying the activities you love. It’s quick and easy to book an appointment at Global Podiatry in Chicago or Wheeling, simply give us a call, visit one of our clinics or send us a question through our website. Relief from bunion pain is very possible with the help of our expert team.