Bunion Treatment in AZ by Top Foot Specialists

Foot + Ankle Specialty Centers

Podiatrist located in Gilbert, Scottsdale, Chandler, Mesa & Phoenix, AZ

Bunions are painful and frustrating conditions, but there’s hope! If you’re struggling with this issue, you’re not alone. Here at Foot & Ankle Specialty Centers, we provide the best treatments to help you get back on your feet comfortably. You don’t need to search for “bunion treatment near me” anymore; we are here to help you.

Keep reading to learn about the condition, its causes, symptoms, best shoes for bunions and correctors, and treatment options.

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What is a Bunion?

Also known as hallux valgus, it is a bony bump. This bump forms at the base of your big toe. This condition occurs when some of the bones in the front part of your foot move out of place. This placement change causes the tip of your big toe to go towards the smaller toes. It also forces the joint at the base of your big toe to stick out.

What Does a Bunion Look Like?

Aside from the noticeable bump on the side of the foot, you can see redness, swelling, and soreness. Your skin might be tender to the touch. Over time, it may grow larger and more painful, and make it difficult for you to wear shoes or walk comfortably.

What Causes Bunions?

Causes of this condition include:

Inherited foot type
Foot stress or injuries
Deformities at the time of the birth
Wearing tight and narrow shoes

Bunion Symptoms

Symptom include:

A bump on your big toe
Redness, swelling, or soreness around your toe joint
Corns or calluses
Persistent or intermittent pain
Restricted movement of your big toe

How to Get Rid of Bunions?

At Foot & Ankle Specialty Centers, we understand foot pain and inconvenience. Here are several treatments we recommend to help alleviate pain and potentially get rid of this condition:

Wearing Proper Shoes for Bunions

Choosing the right shoes is essential. Best shoes have these features:

Wide toe box
Soft, stretchable materials
Low heels
Good arch support
Cushioned soles

Using Padding

Use bunion pads to cushion the affected area. These pads protect your foot from rubbing against your shoes, resulting in a reduction in pain and preventing further irritation. Pads have various shapes and sizes to fit your specific needs, so make sure you consult our experts.

Using Custom Orthotics

Custom shoe orthotics or inserts can help you position your foot correctly. If you distribute your weight more evenly, your orthotics can help you lower pressure on the affected area and provide significant relief.

Medications

Anti-inflammatory drugs such like ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) or naproxen (Aleve) can reduce pain and swelling. To make sure you take the right medication, consult our specialists, and they will recommend the best medications for your situation.

Ice Therapy

Using ice packs and putting on the affected area can help you reduce inflammation and numb the pain. Consistent use of ice can significantly reduce swelling and provide temporary pain relief. Wrap the ice pack using a cloth and use it for 20 minutes several times a day. Avoid direct contact with your skin to prevent frostbite.

Toe Separators for Bunions

These bunion medical devices help keep the toes in the correct position. You can use them to realign the toes. Toe spacers for bunions also reduce pain and prevent the condition from worsening. Toe separators are typically made of soft, flexible materials like silicone or gel, and they can be worn comfortably inside shoes.

Bunion Corrector

Correctors like splints or braces can realign the toes and joints. This realignment can gradually improve the positioning of your toe and lower pain. They also reduce pain and correct the deformity over time. You can wear these correctors at night and to gently straighten the big toe while you sleep.

Surgery

If non-surgical treatments are ineffective, we offer various surgical options. Surgery can correct the condition, relieve pain, and improve foot function. You can read about surgery options below.

Are Bunion Correctors Effective?

Yes, they can be effective in providing temporary pain relief and slowing the deformity progression. They help you realign the toes, reduce the bunion pain, and make daily activities more comfortable. However, you cannot consider them as permanent solutions and do not replace the need for proper footwear or, in severe cases, surgical intervention.

Types of Bunion Surgery

There are various minimally invasive bunion surgery options:

Osteotomy

It involves cutting and realigning the bones of the big toe to their correct position. This surgery is ideal for severe cases. It helps restore normal toe alignment, reducing pressure and pain.

Arthrodesis

It removes damaged joint surfaces and permanently fuses the bones. Podiatrists recommend this surgery for severe arthritis or failed previous surgeries. It eliminates joint movement and provides long-term pain relief and stability, but it reduces flexibility.

Exostectomy

It removes the bony bump from the toe joint without realigning the bones. It is used for prominent cases without significant toe deformity. This type of surgery provides immediate pain but may be combined with other procedures to prevent recurrence.

Resection Arthroplasty

It involves removing part of the damaged toe joint to relieve pain. It is typically for older patients or those with severe cases and joint disease. This surgery reduces pain and improves function and flexibility.

Bunion Surgery Before and After

Before the surgery, you may have:

Constant and debilitating pain
Pain, deformity, or difficulty when walking
Difficulty in finding comfortable, well-fitting shoes.

After the surgery, you will have:

Significant elimination or reduction in pain
Better toe movement and foot function.
The ability to wear more shoes comfortably

Bunion Surgery Recovery Time

Recovery times from the surgery can vary depending on your case and the type of surgery:

Initial healing usually takes about 6-8 weeks.
The ability to return to normal activities is typically achieved within 3-4 months.
Your complete recovery may take up to one year.

Bunion Exercises

Bunion exercises keep your feet flexible and strong. They play an important role in managing bunions. Let’s check some exercises together:

Toe Stretches: To do this, you need to sit comfortably and spread your toes as far apart as you can. You should hold this position for five seconds and repeat the movement ten times. Try this exercise if you want to release tension and improve toe flexibility.
Toe Flexing and Contracting: For this exercise, you should point your toes straight out and then curl them under tightly. Hold each position for a few seconds, repeating ten times. This exercise is good for you if you want to strengthen the muscles around your big toe.
Toe Circles: You need to lift one foot off the ground and rotate your big toe in a circular motion ten times in each direction. Go for this one if you want to increase flexibility.
Picking Up Objects: Place small items, like marbles or a towel, on the floor, and use your toes to pick them up. It is a good movement for the smaller muscles in your feet and enhances dexterity.
Arch Rolls: For this one, you should use a small ball, like a tennis ball, and roll it under your arch from heel to toe for about two to three minutes. This exercise can relieve tension around the big toe joint.
Heel Raises: For this one you should stand with your feet hip-width apart, lift your heels to balance on your toes, hold for five seconds, then lower. Repeat this movement ten times. It can help strengthen the muscles in your feet.

How to Prevent Bunions?

Bunions can be difficult to manage, but you can prevent them. Do the following to prevent bunions:

Wear the right shoes and avoid tight ones that squeeze your toes
If you notice redness, swelling, or a bump near your big toe, talk to a specialist.
You can also use ice packs to reduce swelling
Use cushioned pads to stop rubbing and ease pain.
Simple exercises like stretching your toes or picking up small items with your toes can be helpful as well.
Maintain a healthy weight to reduce pressure on your feet.

Bunion Surgery Cost

The cost of the surgery varies based on your condition and the type of procedure needed. For a personalized estimate and to discuss your options, please contact Foot & Ankle Specialty Centers. You can also call our team at 480-812-3668 to get detailed information and take the next step toward pain-free feet.

Is Bunion Surgery Covered by Insurance?

You may ask, “How much is bunion surgery without insurance?” Fortunately, insurance typically covers the surgery, often covering 70-90% of the cost, depending on your insurance plan. You can contact us and we will help you understand the bunion surgery cost without insurance or with it, navigate the insurance process and provide a personalized estimate. Just call 480-812-3668 and get started.

Are Bunions in Children Normal?

Yes, though they are less common than in adults. Symptoms are the same, including a noticeable bump on the side of the big toe, redness, swelling, and pain, especially when wearing tight shoes. Treatment involves:

Wearing suitable footwear with a wide toe box.
Using orthotics, and in some cases.
Physical therapy to improve foot alignment.

To prevent this condition in children, ensure your child wears well-fitting, supportive shoes and avoids footwear that is too tight or narrow. Early intervention is crucial to managing symptoms and preventing the condition from worsening.

Best Bunion Treatments Near Me in Arizona

At Foot & Ankle Specialty Centers, our 5 branches in Gilbert, Scottsdale, Chandler, Mesa & Phoenix, AZ, offer comprehensive and personalized bunions on feet treatments. Our Bunion specialists can help you find pain relief and improve your quality of life. So, stop Googling “bunion doctors near me” and Contact us today to schedule an appointment and take the first step towards pain-free feet.