Bunions

Up to 1 in 3 Americans have bunions –– painful bumps that form on the outside of the big toe. At Methuen Podiatry Associates LLP, located in Methuen, Massachusetts, board-certified podiatric surgeons and wound care specialists Nicholas A. Ciotola, DPM, Dennis Ryan, DPM, and the team offer minimally invasive and conservative treatments for bunions. Call Methuen Podiatry Associates LLP to request bunion treatment or book your appointment online today.

What causes bunions?

Bunions form when the bones at the front of your foot change position because of trauma or the way you walk. Over time, these changes cause your big toe joint to bulge outward, resulting in a hard and swollen knot.

Bunions don’t always cause issues. It depends on their size and location. If you have foot pain that doesn’t improve, contact Methuen Podiatry Associates LLP.

What are the symptoms of bunions?

Bunion symptoms include:

• Numbness in the big toe
• Blisters, calluses, or corns on the top of your big toe
• Hammertoes
• Inability to wear regular shoes

As the bunion grows, you may have difficulty bending or straightening your big toe.

Should I see a foot doctor about bunions?

Make an appointment at Methuen Podiatry Associates LLP if you have a bunion and it’s red, painful, or sensitive to the touch. That’s particularly true if the bunion makes it painful to stand, walk, or perform other routine activities. Early intervention and treatment can prevent the bunion from worsening and restore your mobility.

How are bunions diagnosed?

Your Methuen Podiatry Associates LLP provider reviews your medical records, asks about your symptoms, and examines your foot. Bunions are easy to see, but your provider might order X-rays or another type of diagnostic imaging to check for joint damage and bone alignment.

How are bunions treated?

Methuen Podiatry Associates LLP treats bunions using a conservative and minimally invasive approach. They may recommend:

• Physical therapy
• Corticosteroid injections
• Bunion pads or taping
• Wearing shoes that take pressure off your toes
• Custom orthotics
• Oral or topical anti-inflammatory medication

If your symptoms continue or worsen, you might be a candidate for Arthrex® Bunionectomy, a minimally invasive form of bunion correction. 

During Arthrex Bunionectomy, your surgeon carefully realigns the bones at the front of your foot. The procedure is quick, effective, and requires no hospital stay. On average, people recover eight weeks quicker than patients who have had traditional open bunion surgery.*

Can bunions be prevented?

You can reduce your risk of bunions by wearing comfortable and well-fitting shoes. The Methuen Podiatry Associates LLP team can offer tips on selecting shoes that align with your needs. In general, avoid shoes that squeeze your toes together, like high heels.  

Call Methuen Podiatry Associates LLP to explore the treatments for bunions, or request your appointment online today.

*Individual results may vary.