If you have a preference for high heels or other tight-fitting shoes, you might be at increased risk for developing painful bunions. At Family Foot & Ankle Care in Lubbock, Texas, experienced podiatrist Adam Nguyen, DPM, offers a variety of conservative therapies to relieve pain and prevent deformities in your big toe joint. Dr. Nguyen can also use minimally invasive surgical techniques to realign the bones in your foot and toe to keep you active and pain free. Call Family Foot & Ankle Care to schedule a consultation for painful bunions today.

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A bunion is a bony bump that develops at the joint on the inside of your big toe. This bump develops over time when pressure on your big toe forces it toward your second toe.

Pressure on your big toe is often the result of wearing shoes that don’t fit well or that are too tight. Women are especially prone to bunions if they frequently wear high heels with pointy toes.

Other causes of bunions include rheumatoid arthritis and other inflammatory diseases, as well as having a family history of bunions.

When should I seek treatment for bunions?

You should schedule a diagnostic evaluation for a bunion when you notice a bump forming near your big toe joint or if your big toe is red and painful.

When you can no longer relieve bunion pain with over-the-counter medications and rest, Dr. Nguyen can customize a care plan for you.

If left untreated, a bunion can cause your other toes to rub together, forming thick calluses. A bunion can also alter the structure of your big toe joint and result in a deformity that interferes with physical activity and your ability to wear shoes comfortably.

How are bunions diagnosed?

To confirm your symptoms relate to a bunion, Dr. Nguyen reviews your personal and family medical history and examines your toes.

You might need an X-ray or other imaging test to evaluate the alignment of the bones in your foot and toes.

How are bunions treated?

In the early stages of a bunion, you should choose shoes that are wide enough for your toes. Dr. Nguyen might recommend adding protective padding to your shoes to cushion your big toe joint and prevent a worsening of your condition.

Orthotic devices like shoe inserts can also relieve pressure on your toes and keep your foot bones in proper alignment.

If your bunion is advanced and altering the shape of your foot, Dr. Nguyen discusses your options for surgery. Surgical repair of a bunion typically involves a realignment of your bones, tendons, and ligaments.

Avoid deformities and other complications of bunions by scheduling a diagnostic evaluation. Use the online booking tool or call Family Foot & Ankle Care today.