Bunion Specialist

What is a bunion?

A bunion is a bony bump caused by stress placed on the joint at the base of your big toe. A bunion begins to form when the big toe pushes towards the second toe, causing the joint to protrude often irritating the skin that covers it so that it becomes red and sore. Bunions can be painful and obtrusive for anyone, but they can be especially problematic for athletes or anyone who exercises regularly.

Many people have bunions because of an inherited structural defect, because of the swelling caused by arthritis, or due to stress placed on the foot. Wearing tight-fitting, narrow, or constrictive shoes can also exacerbate bunions. Bunionettes — smaller bunions that develop on the smallest toe — can also occur.

What do bunions look and feel like?

You’ll first notice a bunion as a bony bump that begins to form on the side of your foot next to your big toe, which will cause:

• Swelling, redness, or soreness around your big toe joint
• Corns or calluses, especially if your big toe has begun to overlap your second toe
• Persistent or intermittent pain
• Restricted movement in your big toe
• Arthritis in the big toe joint

How are bunions treated?

Depending on your particular circumstances, there are a variety of ways to treat bunions. In most cases, Dr. Nejat usually recommends starting with more conservative treatments, including finding more comfortable shoes and/or custom-made orthotics to ease the stress on your feet. Padding, splints or inserts may also be used to provide your joint with more support.

In more advanced cases, Dr. Nejat offers a variety of surgical options to directly address the protruding bone. Typically surgery is recommended only if the bunion causes persistent pain and swelling, and after taking into account your general level of activity and overall health. When performed, however, the surgery is quite effective. In fact, Dr. Nejat is one of the few podiatrists in Southern California who’s qualified to perform a specialized surgery called Lapiplasty® 3D Bunion Correction. Specifically developed for correcting all three dimensions of the bunion deformity, the Lapiplasty® surgery addresses the root of the problem. This advanced technology is designed to allow you to walk within days of surgery while permanently relieving your bunion pain and returning you to your active lifestyle. Fix it right the first time with Dr. Nejat.

If you think you might be suffering from bunions, or if you have any questions, don’t hesitate to call the Podiatry Institute of Southern California today, or make an appointment online using the scheduling tool. You can put the discomfort of bunions behind you today.