If you notice enlargement of the bone around the base of your big toe, or at the base of the little toe, you likely have a bunion. A bunion can cause disfigurement and pain overtime, but the experts at Hosey and Murphy Foot & Ankle Centers with multiple locations in Clinton Township, Sterling Heights, and Mount Clemens, Michigan, can help. Many therapies and treatments are available for bunions: Just call the nearest location or schedule online to find out what’s appropriate for you.

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What is a bunion?

When you have a prominence located on the inside of the foot, just behind the big toe, it’s likely a bunion. It’s caused by the big toe leaning toward the second toe and, with time, progresses and causes a bump. You may also develop a tailor’s bunion, a prominence of the fifth metatarsal bone at the base of the little toe. This type of bunion is also known as a bunionette and is less common than bunions, but causes similar symptoms and complications.

Bunions can cause pain and dysfunction, regardless of the size.

Why do bunions develop?

Bunions are usually caused by faulty mechanics in your foot structure that are likely inherited deformities. Shoes don’t cause bunions, but certain styles – such as high heels — can aggravate them and make them worse.

What are the symptoms of bunions?

Bunions can cause pain in the area around the bump by the big toe. Tight shoes that push on the area aggravate this pain. The pain usually worsens over time.

You may also develop redness and irritation at the area of the bunion.

Is surgery necessary to treat bunions?

Bunions can be treated nonsurgically with the right shoe choices. Go for styles with a wider toe box and extra padding.

You may alter your physical activity choices too, so you stay off your feet more.  Ice, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications, and orthotics are other conservative treatments.

When a bunion starts to interfere with your ability to do daily activities and enjoy life, come in to Hosey and Murphy Foot & Ankle Centers. The team may recommend surgery to correct the deformity.

Several different surgical interventions are available, and the doctors provide you with the one that best corrects your specific condition. Surgery and recovery are quite tolerable, and many patients are able to put weight on the treated foot on the same day as the surgery. Surgery usually eliminates the bunion permanently, so you don’t have to worry about it returning.

If you have a prominence at the big toe joint, or on the outside of the little toe, that suggests a bunion, seek guidance from Hosey and Murphy Foot & Ankle Centers. Call the nearest location or schedule online today.