What Are Bunions?

You’ve probably heard of a bunion before, but you may not fully understand what a bunion is. A bunion is a bone deformity that is often caused by issues in the structure of the foot. Bunions can be irritating to deal with and it’s important that you’re able to understand what they are and how they can be managed. Our podiatrists at Podiatry Services of CNY in North Syracuse, NY, can explain what bunions are and what you can do about them. 

What Are Bunions?

Bunions are a deformity that appears on the side of your foot at the base of the big toe. This often happens because there is an issue with the structure of your foot and the toe moves out of place. This causes the bone to grow outward and create a large knob on the side of your foot. While bunions aren’t always directly painful, they can rub against shoes and get calluses.

Our podiatrists in North Syracuse, NY, can examine your bunions and determine the best treatment plan for you. Bunions cannot be removed without the use of surgery, but you can manage the irritation you experience. You can place protective padding on the sides of your feet to protect your bunions from irritation and friction. Orthotic devices can help support your feet and stabilize the joints. This can help correct how you stand and walk, relieving any pain that you might experience.

You may also want to perform certain exercises and stretches to prevent stiffness or arthritis from setting in. Night splints can also help align the toes and correct the positioning of your feet. In severe cases, you might need surgery to shave down the bunion and correct your foot structure.

Contact Our Podiatrists Today

Make sure you deal with your bunions. Contact your podiatrists at Podiatry Services of CNY in North Syracuse, NY, to learn more about what bunions are. Call for more information and to schedule an appointment today at (315) 458-1777.