Whether due to genetics, repeatedly wearing tight shoes, or rheumatoid arthritis, bunions are a prevalent podiatric problem. 

“A bunion is a bump that forms on the outside of the big toe,” explains Cleveland Clinic. “This foot deformity occurs from years of pressure on the big toe joint (the metatarsophalangeal, or MTP, joint). Eventually, the toe joint gets out of alignment, and a bony bump forms.”

Smaller bunions – called bunionettes – can also develop on the outer side of the foot below the pinky toe. 

Bunions are painful. They can cause swelling and even impair walking. If you have a bunion, what are your treatment options? Is it possible to remove a bunion? Is surgery necessary the only way to get rid of a bunion? 

How do I Know if I Have Bunions?

While it’s possible to have a bunion without realizing it, most bunions are relatively easy to diagnose visually due to the tell-tale protrusion they cause. 

However, if you suspect you have a bunion, it’s essential to visit your podiatrist for a professional diagnosis. Through a physical exam and x-ray imaging, your foot doctor can assess the condition’s seriousness and measure the level of swelling on the inside of the MTP joint. 

Can You Fix Bunions Without Surgery?

Thankfully, having a bunion does not automatically mean you have to have surgery. There are several non-surgical treatment options for bunions that may prevent you from requiring a bunion removal operation. 

Non-surgical bunion treatments include:

• Changing or modifying your footwear with padding.
• Introducing orthotics to your shoes. 
• Receiving physical therapy.
• Icing the affected area.
• Receiving injection therapy or taking medication for pain management.  

While these therapeutic approaches will not reverse or remove the bunion, they may help prevent further growth, reduce pain, and make walking more comfortable. 

Should You Get Bunion Removal Surgery?

In some cases where the bunion has causes advanced deformities to the foot, surgery may be the best option. 

Before deciding to receive any surgical intervention, it’s important to discuss your condition with a healthcare professional. Your podiatrist will help you explore your options and map out a road to recovery that suits your individual needs. 

“In selecting the procedure or combination of procedures for your particular case, the foot and ankle surgeon will take into consideration the extent of your deformity based on the x-ray findings, your age, your activity level and other factors,” says the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons. “The length of the recovery period will vary, depending on the procedure or procedures performed.”

For more information, read our related article on Is Bunion Surgery Right for You? 

Bunion Removal in Fresno, CA

If you are suffering pain or difficulty walking due to a bunion or another problem with your foot, please don’t hesitate to reach out and get help from Canyon Oaks Foot & Ankle. We offer compassionate, conservative treatment for all of our patients. 

In the case that you require surgery, you can have confidence in our strong record of successful surgeries. We will help you get back on your feet as soon as possible. 

Please fill out the form below to schedule an appointment at one of our Central Valley offices.