Bunion Treatment Explained
Believe that you’re suffering from a bunion? If so, it’s time to see a podiatrist or another medical expert who can provide effective, lasting treatment. Visit Step Ahead Foot and Ankle in Kalispell, MT to speak with Dr. Tyson Fiala and learn more about bunions and the appropriate treatment.
Bunions are bumps found near your big toe. They are also known as hallux valgus and are potentially painful conditions that could ruin your quality of life. Without treatment, bunions may make many of the activities you love, such as hiking or simply walking around the neighborhood, impossible.
Fortunately, bunions can be treated. Potential treatments include:
- Supportive inserts
- Wider shoes
- Surgery
In some cases, some treatments may provide temporary relief. Ultimately, however, surgery may be needed to fully treat your bunions. You’ll need to work with a medical expert to devise a specific surgical treatment for your bunions and feet. Let’s take a deeper look at how bunions can be treated. If you think you're suffering from bunions, get in touch with Step Ahead Foot and Ankle in Kalispell, MT.
Bunion Treatment: Surgery, Shoes, and More
If you’re suffering from a bunion, a wide pair of shoes may reduce pressure on your feet. Meanwhile, heels and tight shoes could not only cause pain by exerting pressure on your feet and the bunion itself, but they could also exacerbate the bunion. Narrow shoes are one potential cause of hallux valgus.
The right supportive inserts and padding could also reduce pain. By working with a podiatrist, you can find the padding and inserts most likely to produce results. If you’re in pain, some over-the-counter pain medications, such as ibuprofen, may provide temporary relief. Unfortunately, this relief may not last long.
Another option is an ice pack. Besides reducing pain, an ice pack might also reduce inflammation. Surgery is often needed to treat a bunion. Each surgery is dependent on your specific situation. The surgeon might remove damaged tissue and realign the bones in your foot, for example.
Contact Step Ahead Foot and Ankle in Kalispell, MT to learn more about treatment options, including bunionectomy, or bunion surgery. You can call us at (406) 755-2818 and speak with Dr. Fiala.