Bunions are bony bumps that form at the base of the big toe. They often result from tight and uncomfortable footwear, like high-heels, but other causes include age, genetics, arthritic conditions, or flat feet. More than three million patients report bunions annually, and that's a lot of treatment that may have been avoidable. When bunions bother you, don't suffer silently. Visit our Kalispell, MT, office to discuss relief methods. At Step Ahead Foot and Ankle Clinic, Dr. Esther Sue Barnes may recommend non-invasive or surgical treatment depending on the severity of your case.
Signs and Symptoms of Bunions
If you're guilty of wearing narrow shoes that don't properly fit your feet, have inherited structural problems, or suffer from arthritis, these bony projections may appear. The bump that begins in the joint is a visual representation of a change in the foot's framework, which often requires medication or surgery to fix. Dr. Barnes encourages patients to visit our Kalispell, MT, office when noticing one or more of the following:
- Limited movement in the big toe
- Corns and calluses on the first or second toe
- Pain that gets worse with movement
- Swelling and redness around the base of the big toe
- An outward bulge at the base of the big toe
Treating Your Bunions
Bunions fall into mild, moderate or severe categories. Sometimes, they only require a little self-care with non-medicated bunion pads, anti-inflammatory drugs, padded shoe inserts, or by wearing comfortable footwear. If a bunion results from injury, ice and elevation may be helpful, bunion splints, and podiatrist-approved exercises. Surgery is always a last resort, but when bunions negatively impact every moment of your life, it might be the only option. Before moving forward with any method, Dr. Barnes will properly diagnose the condition with x-rays and a physical examination.
Don't wait until bunion pain becomes intolerable. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Esther Sue Barnes to identify which treatment method is best for you. She can address any questions or concerns during your initial visit. For more information about bunions, other conditions treated, and services provided at Step Ahead Foot and Ankle Clinic, visit our website. Please call (406) 755-2818 for appointment scheduling in our Kalispell MT, office.