Treating Your Bunions

Bunions are bony protrusions situated on the side of the foot near the big toe. Friction caused by footwear constantly rubbing against bunions throughout the day can lead to inflammation, pain, and discomfort. Bunions do not go away on their own so it is important to seek professional treatment. Dr. Gary Rogers, the skilled podiatrist at Wilmette Foot and Ankle Clinic serving Wilmette, North Shore, Skokie, and Evanston, IL, treats bunions and can help you find relief from the discomfort and inflammation.

What Causes Bunions?

Bunions are often caused by a dislocated metatarsophalangeal toe joint, which is a joint at the base of the big toe. When this joint shifts out of place, the big toe ends up slanting toward the smaller ones. The slanting of the big toe causes the bony end of the joint to press against the side of the foot and form a hard bump, which is called a bunion. Since they stick out, bunions can become inflamed and painful throughout the day as the shoes repeatedly rub against them.

There are many reasons why the metatarsophalangeal toe joint might become dislocated and lead to the development of bunions. One cause is wearing shoes that are too tight or too narrow, causing the toes to be cramped. Other factors that can result in dislocation of the toe joint and bunions include an injury to the foot, a foot deformity, or arthritis and other medical conditions.

Bunion Treatments

Bunions do not go away on their own so it is best to see a podiatrist for treatment. We offer several treatment options for bunions at our Wilmette, North Shore, Skokie, and Evanston, IL, area podiatry practice. Treatment measures can include:

  • Wearing properly fitted footwear with sufficient room for the toes
  • Inserting protective padding in the shoes to reduce friction and alleviate inflammation
  • Custom orthotic devices to stabilize the toe joint and correct foot positioning
  • Foot exercises to improve joint mobility and function or to prevent stiffness
  • Night splints to help properly realign the toe joint
  • Removal of any calluses or corns on the feet
  • Surgical removal of bunions and realignment of the toe joint

There are many ways to treat your bunions. Our skilled podiatrist can discuss treatment options with you and help you decide on a method that is right for you. For the treatment of bunions in Wilmette, North Shore, Skokie, or Evanston, IL, schedule an appointment with Dr. Rogers by calling Wilmette Foot and Ankle Clinic at (847) 256-4434.

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