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Long Term Effects Of Untreated Bunions

How your podiatrists in Syracuse, NY, can help when you have bunions

Bunions are more than just unsightly and uncomfortable. In fact, untreated bunions can cause permanent deformities of the bones in your feet. Fortunately, your podiatrist knows how to eliminate bunions and relieve bunion pain. The podiatrists at Podiatry Services of CNY in Syracuse, NY, offer a wide range of foot and ankle services, including treatment for bunions.

Bunions can be caused by a bone deformity in your foot and wearing shoes that are too narrow. Shoes that don’t have enough room for your toes cause your toes to be crushed together. Your big toe joint will extend outward and rub against the inside of your shoe.

The constant friction of your toe joint rubbing against the inside of your shoe causes inflammation, and eventually, a bunion forms. The bunion looks like a large, hard bump on the side of your foot, next to your big toe.

If you let the bunion go untreated, it can lead to:

  • Hammertoe
  • Arthritis in your toes
  • Bursitis in your toes
  • Difficulty walking due to pain
  • Deformities in your toes

If you notice a bunion beginning to form, you can try some simple remedies to get relief. Remember to:

  • Place an ice pack on the bunion several times each day
  • Tape the bunion to provide cushioning and support
  • Take over-the-counter pain and anti-inflammatory medication

Large, painful bunions should be treated by your podiatrist, who may recommend:

  • Corn and callus removal to eliminate friction
  • Physical therapy and stretching to maintain flexibility
  • Custom-fit orthotics or night splints to maintain foot alignment
  • Surgical treatment to remove the bunion and realign your foot

To read more detailed information about bunions, please click here.

To learn more about the dangers of untreated bunions and the facts about bunion treatment, call the podiatrists at Podiatry Services of CNY in Syracuse, NY. You can reach them in the office by calling (315) 458-1777, so call now!