Bunion Treatment with United Foot & Ankle Surgeons: Your Feet Deserve Relief
Wiki Article
You are definitely not the only person who has noticed a bump growing near your big toe, which is making shoes uncomfortable to wear or even starting to hurt. That bump is likely a bunion, and it’s something we help patients with every single day at United Foot & Ankle Surgeons.
Bunions can make it uncomfortable to walk, stand, or even relax. And while they might start small, they usually get worse over time without the right care. The good news? You can choose. And we’re here to walk you through all of them—from simple changes you can make at home to advanced surgical treatments when needed.
What Is a Bunion, Really?
Let’s start with the basics. A bunion is a bony bump that forms on the side of your big toe. It occurs when the bones in your foot move out of place, causing the big toe to sag toward the second toe and lean inward. Over time, this misalignment pushes out the joint at the base of your toe, creating a noticeable bump. After a long day on your feet or wearing tight shoes, it may feel stiff, swollen, or even painful. How can I tell if I'm a bunny? You might have a bunion if:
You notice a bump on the side of your big toe
Your big toe is turning inward
Your shoes are no longer comfortable.
You feel pain while walking or standing
The area feels red, irritated, or swollen
If this sounds like you, it’s time to come see us. Catching it early can save you a lot of pain down the road.
Why are bunions common?
There’s no one single cause, but here are some of the most common reasons people develop bunions:
It runs in the family – Bunions can be hereditary
Wearing tight or narrow shoes – especially high heels
Flat feet or other structural foot issues
Arthritis, particularly in the feet's joints.
Injuries or trauma to the foot
At United Foot & Ankle Surgeons, we take a close look at your foot structure and history to find out what’s really causing the issue. That helps us pick the right treatment for you.
What Happens During a Bunion Evaluation?
When you come in to see us, we start by simply talking with you. We want to hear your story—how long the pain has been going on, what shoes you wear, and how your feet are affecting your day-to-day life.
Then we’ll do a quick physical exam and take X-rays so we can see what’s happening inside your foot. From there, we’ll explain your options clearly—no confusing medical terms or pressure.
Let’s Talk Treatment: Non-Surgical Options
Not every bunion needs surgery. In fact, many people find real relief with simple, non-invasive treatments—especially if we catch the bunion early.
Here’s what we may suggest:
1. Better Shoes
Wearing shoes with a wider toe box can instantly reduce pressure on the bunion. A small adjustment can have a significant impact.
2. Custom Orthotics
These are shoe inserts made just for your feet. They help realign how you walk and take stress
off the joint.
3. Taping and padding
This can reduce pressure and protect the bunion while you’re on the go.
4. Ice and Medication
Over-the-counter anti-inflammatories (like ibuprofen) and applying ice can help calm swelling and ease pain.
5. Cortisone Injections
For more intense flare-ups, we sometimes recommend a cortisone shot to quickly reduce inflammation.
During your visit, we will walk you through each one and assist you in selecting the option that best suits your lifestyle. When Surgery Makes Sense.
If the bunion is large or causes daily pain, non-surgical treatments may not always be enough. If that’s your situation, don’t worry. We’ve helped thousands of people find real, lasting relief through bunion surgery.
We at United Foot & Ankle Surgeons are experts in cutting-edge, minimally invasive procedures that aim to get you back on your feet as soon as possible and as comfortably as possible.
The Surgeries We Offer
We don’t believe in a one-size-fits-all approach. Instead, we’ll help you choose the surgical option that’s right for your feet, your lifestyle, and your recovery goals.
Bunionectomy
This is where we remove the bump and straighten out the toe joint.
Osteotomy
In this procedure, we carefully cut and reposition the bone to restore alignment.
Arthrodesis
If the joint is severely damaged or arthritic, we may recommend fusing it for long-term stability.
Lapiplasty® 3D Bunion Correction
This is the most advanced technique we offer. Because it treats the bunion in all three dimensions, it is more effective and less likely to cause it to recur. It also offers a quicker, easier recovery for many patients.
How Does Recovery Look?
Recovery depends on the type of surgery, but most people can walk in a surgical boot within days. You’ll receive a detailed recovery plan, and our team will be by your side to check in and guide you through every step.
We’ll also help with pain management, physical therapy (if needed), and footwear advice once you’re healed.
Why Choose United Foot & Ankle Surgeons?
Honestly, we love what we do—and it shows. Helping people get back on their feet pain-free is why we show up every day.
Here’s what makes our team different:
We treat you as a whole, not just your foot issue. We explain things clearly and honestly
We use the latest technology, including 3D imaging and Lapiplasty®
Our surgeons are highly trained and experienced
We’re known for being kind, approachable, and focused on great outcomes
We know it can be hard to make time for a doctor’s visit. But taking care of your feet now can save you from more pain later—and we’ll do everything we can to make it easy, smooth, and stress-free.
FAQs
What if I just leave the bunion alone?
It might not seem like a big deal now, but bunions usually get worse over time. They can lead to more serious issues, like joint damage or hammertoes. And once the pain starts affecting your life, it’s harder to treat. Getting checked early gives you more options.
Is bunion surgery scary or painful?
Not as much as you’d think. With today’s advanced techniques, many patients have a smooth experience with minimal downtime. We will ensure your comfort at every stage. How can I choose the best treatment? That’s what we’re here for. After your exam and X-rays, we’ll walk you through all your options—no pressure, no confusion. You’ll know exactly what’s going on and what steps make the most sense for you.
Can the bunion come back after surgery?
It can, but we do everything we can to prevent that. Especially with procedures like Lapiplasty®, the risk is very low when the right recovery steps are followed. We’ll also give you tips to protect your results long-term.
Conclusion:
If your bunion is affecting your daily life—even just a little—it’s worth getting it checked. You don’t have to live with pain, avoid shoes you love, or skip the activities that bring you joy. At United Foot & Ankle Surgeons, we’re here to help you feel better, move easier, and enjoy life on your terms again.
Reach out today to schedule your visit. We have your back—and your feet—whether you require straightforward solutions or skilled surgical care.