Bunion

Diagnosis

Doctor will perform physical examination to assess for any signs of bunion.  X-rays can be recommended if any suspicious signs are detected.

Treatment

There are various treatment options available based on the condition and pain felt from the bunion.

Conservative treatment

For patients who have a mild symptom of the bunion, surgical treatment may not be necessary. The following are the nonsurgical options:

• Bunion pads and cushions. These can be found over-the-counter and choose the non-medicated type to protect the foot from the shoe and lessen the pain.
• Change your shoes. Comfortable shoes are recommended in order for your foot to have plenty of space.
• Over-the-counter pain-relief medications can be taken such as ibuprofen, acetaminophen, or naproxen sodium to lessen the pain. Another option that can help is a cortisone injection.
• Padded shoe Inserts. Reduces symptoms by distributing pressure to the feet inside the shoes. Prescribed or over-the-counter orthotic devices may also help.
• Ice application. Helps to relieve swelling and soreness if you have been standing for too long but make sure that you check with your doctor if you have any circulation issue or reduced sensation before applying ice directly to your feet.
• Physical therapy: Physical rehabilitation exercises, massage or ultrasound therapy to control the pain, reduce inflammation, better alignment and improve the strength of the muscle.

Surgical

Surgery may be recommended if your symptoms still persist and the bunion is already affecting your activities of daily living or causing you pain more often than usual. But, it is recommended not to be done if it’s for aesthetic reasons only.

There are many surgical technique to correct the bunion and not all techniques are indicated with each case. The following procedures are to be done alone or in pair to correct the bunion:

• Removing the swollen tissue surrounding the joint of the big toe
• Taking out some parts of the big toe bone to make it in correct alignment
• Correcting the deformed angle of one or more forefoot and realign them to a regular position.
• Permanently merging the bones of the defective joint.

You will be able to walk as normal right after the surgery, but it  can take weeks to months to fully recover. Wear comfortable and correct shoes once you have already recovered to prevent the recurrence.