Your comfort relies heavily on the condition of your feet. If you wear shoes that are one size too small, you will feel it for the rest of the day. One foot condition that can affect your daily comfort levels is having bunions. If they become painful, you can consult your podiatrist about both nonsurgical and surgical treatments. Here is a quick guide to explain what you should know about bunions.  

What Is a Bunion?

A bunion slowly develops when the joint at the base of your big toe starts to point outward. As a result, your big toe will begin to point inward and possibly try to overlap the toe next to it. If bunions run in your family, you may also be susceptible to them. A bunion can also develop when sensitive feet are often crammed into narrow, pointed-toe footwear, since it causes your big toe to push into the neighboring toes.

What Are Symptoms of Bunions?

The joint pointing outward will look like a bump on the edge of your foot. You might also start to see your other toes become red and callused from your big toe overlapping them. If you notice that a bump is starting to form, see your podiatrist so they can judge if it’s a bunion. They also can give you tips on how to slow the development of a bunion. 

How Can Bunions Be Treated?

Nonsurgical Treatment

Nonsurgical treatments will not fix your bunions, but they can help alleviate the discomfort. Bunion pads and orthotics are treatment pads that can make wearing shoes more comfortable. Bunion pads will prevent your foot from rubbing against your shoe, so you won’t feel that pressure throughout the day. Your podiatrist can prescribe orthotics, which will help realign the bones of your foot to relieve stress and ease the pain. 

Surgical Treatment

Since bunion surgery isn’t 100% effective for all ages, your podiatrist may only recommend surgery if you are in a lot of pain. They will also take different variables into account, such as your age, your occupation, and your medical history since all these factors could affect your surgical results long-term.

For a podiatrist who will give you quality foot care, visit Choice Podiatry Associates, located across Monfort Heights South, Kenwood, and Wyoming, OH. From ankle injuries to orthotic prescriptions, this practice will provide individualized care that suits your health needs. To make you as comfortable as possible, they will explain every treatment plan and medical procedure so you know that they are doing all they can to improve your foot care. To make an appointment, visit their website or call (513) 984-1911.