Bunions are bony lumps that form on the side of the big toe. They are one of the most common forefoot problems in adults and are much more common in women.

Signs and symptoms of bunions include:

• Hard lumps on the sides of the feet, by the big toes.
• Hard, swollen, or red skin over the lump.
• A burning sensation.
• Possible numbness.
• The big toe pointing towards the other toes.

Management

• Wear the right footwear. Avoid shoes that can make your bunions worse such as high heels that can push your foot forward and narrow shoes that squeeze your toes together.
• A bunion pad over the area can provide some protection from the suppress of the shoes. Shoe inserts may also be recommended by your podiatrist.
• For painful and swollen bunions, applying an ice bag can help relieve pain.
• Anti inflammatory medicines such as ibuprofen can help relieve pain and inflammation.
• Avoid activities that cause bunion pain such as walking for long distances or standing for extended periods of time.
• In some cases, custom orthotic devices may be provided by the podiatrist.

When is bunion surgery needed?

Generally, if the bunion is not painful, you can manage it conservatively. Although bunions progressively grow bigger over time, you may slow down the progression with proper preventive care.

If the nonsurgical measures fail to relieve bunion pain and when the pain interferes with daily activities, you may need to discuss surgical options with your foot and ankle surgeon. If the bunion is getting worse and you are experiencing severe pain, you may need to have surgery to correct it. Because bunions vary in shape, size, and severity, there are different surgical procedures to correct them.

For the best options for your bunions, contact Dr. Kevin Lam’s office at (239) 430-3668 or visit NaplesPodiatrist.com.

Family Foot and Leg Center has several locations in Lee and Collier county to get you back on your feet fast.

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Serving Southwest Florida Since 2005, Family Foot & Leg Center has 9 convenient locations throughout Collier, Lee, Charlotte, and Sarasota Counties. Offering pediatric to geriatric family care: Ingrown Toenails, Heel Pain, Bunions, Foot / Ankle Arthritis Pain, Plantar Fasciitis, Foot / Ankle Surgery, Custom Orthotics, and Diabetic Wound Care. In office X-rays, ultrasounds, and minor surgical suite exam rooms. Practice powered by EMR and advanced technologies. Home of the Lam Minimal Invasive No-Scar Bunion Surgery! Come Discover Why Patients Love Our 5-Star Foot & Ankle Care! Same Day Appointments! Easy Online Appointment Scheduling!