If a painful bony bump is protruding from your foot, you'll most likely have some concerns. When one develops, this is called a bunion, and you should visit our podiatrist immediately for relief. These toe deformities are common in both men and women, and while most bunions can be treated by conservative measures, severe cases may require more intensive interventions.

If you suspect that you may have a bunion, Dr. Rose M. Sotolongo DPM can physically assess your foot during an initial consultation to our Ridgeland, MS office. She'll then recommend the best treatment option depending on the severity of your condition—read on to learn more.

What is a Bunion?

Bunions are bony deformities that often start small and progress over time if left untreated. They form on the joint at the base of the big toe and causes the tip to gravitate toward the surrounding ones. This visible lump indicates fluctuations in foot mechanics. Rather than pointing straight ahead, the bones become thrown out of alignment. Fortunately, they are correctable and you should seek attention immediately at the first sign of symptoms.

Bunion Symptoms

These protrusions typically result from friction and pressure of the skin against improper footwear. They are inheritable and could also develop from faulty biomechanics. Other causes include foot injuries, arthritis, congenital deformities, or neuromuscular disorders. To accurately diagnose a bunion, our podiatrist will look for one or more of the following:

• Hammertoe development
• Swelling, callus, or firm bump
• Restricted motion in the big toe
• Irritations caused by toe overlap
• Redness, tenderness, soreness

Treatment for Bunions

There are two types of methods Dr. Sotolongo recommends in her Ridgeland, MS, office to help patients get back on their feet: nonsurgical and surgical. Bunions don't disappear on their own, but they are manageable by avoiding high-heeled shoes, wearing non-medicated padding, and applying ice packs. When this doesn't work, our podiatrist will perform a minimally-invasive procedure that involves removing the bunion in its entirety. Post-surgery recovery takes about six weeks to a few months to complete, and this depends on several factors, such as the amount of tissue and bone that's been affected and your health status.
 

Need Foot Care? Give Us a Call

When bunions begin to interfere with your daily activities, consult with your podiatrist to discuss the next steps. Your foot health is most important to us, and Dr. Rose M. Sotolongo DPM can help eliminate your pain and address ways to prevent bunions from returning.

For more information about bunions, the conditions we treat, and the other services that we provide, visit our website. For appointment scheduling at our Ridgeland, MS, office, please call (601) 206-9101.