Bunions

A bunion is a bump that forms on the base of your big toe. It's a common foot problem, affecting up to one-third of American adults. At North Park Podiatry in San Diego, California, experienced podiatrist Trent Brookshier, DPM, and the team offer complete care for bunions. Depending on the severity of your symptoms, they may recommend custom orthotics, wearing different shoes, or undergoing Lapiplasty® 3D Bunion Correction™ surgery. Call the nearest office to schedule bunion treatment, or request your appointment online today.

Do bunions cause big toe pain and swelling?

Yes. Bunions are bony protrusions that develop at the base of the big toe. They occur when the bones in the front of your foot change position due to your gait (how you walk) or general wear-and-tear.

As your big toe pulls toward the smaller toes, the joint at the base bulges outward and swells. 

What factors increase my risk of bunions?

Several factors can contribute to the development of bunions. In many cases, genetics plays a significant role in determining your risk. Inherited foot problems like flat feet, abnormal bone structure, and loose tendons can also increase your risk of bunions.

Other issues like repetitive stress, injuries, and improper footwear contribute to bunions. You’re also more likely to experience bunions if you work a job that keeps you on your feet for hours on end. 

Do bunions present symptoms?

Bunion symptoms include:

• Corns, calluses, or blisters on top of your big toe
• Redness
• Soreness
• Swelling
• Pain
• Difficulty moving your foot, especially your big toe
  

Bunions are painful and make walking or going about your normal routine difficult. They often lead to other foot problems like ingrown toenails, hammertoes, and overlapping toes. 

How are bunions diagnosed?

Your North Park Podiatry provider examines your big toe and big toe joint, checking for redness and swelling. 

They assess your big toe’s range of motion and gently press on your big toe joint and the surrounding skin to identify sensitive places. Your provider also orders X-rays to determine the best treatment approach. 

How are bunions treated?

The North Park Podiatry team uses conservative, noninvasive measures to treat bunions whenever possible. They might suggest:

• Maintaining a healthy weight
• Custom orthotics (prescription shoe inserts)
• Taking over-the-counter pain medication
• Icing the bunion
• Wearing comfortable shoes with room for your toes
  

If your condition is severe, the team might recommend bunion surgery. 

North Park Podiatry is one of the only podiatry practices in the San Diego area offering Lapiplasty® 3D Bunion Correction. This innovative, minimally invasive procedure realigns the bones at the front of your foot.

Lapiplasty 3D Bunion correction completely eliminates bunions, relieves pain, and improves mobility. 

Don’t wait to get bunion treatment. Call North Park Podiatry today to schedule an appointment, or book your visit online.