What are Bunions?
Bunions are a common foot condition that can cause pain, swelling, and difficulty walking if left untreated. At Katy Foot Care, our experienced podiatrists provide personalized bunion evaluations and treatment options for patients in Katy and Cypress, TX, helping relieve discomfort and improve foot function.
According to the American Podiatric Medical Association, bunions are a “bump” on the joint at the base of the big toe—the metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint—that forms when the bone or tissue at the big toe joint moves out of place. Bunions can also occur at the base of smaller toes, where they are labeled “tailor’s bunion.”
When abnormal forces are exerted on the joints and tendons of the foot, it causes instability in the joint, which then causes the formation of bunions. Bunions result from prolonged abnormal motion and irregular pressure over the MTP joint.
Bunions are hereditary; however, it is the type of foot that is passed down, not the bunion. Parents suffering from foot abnormalities can pass it on to their children.
Bunions: Symptoms and Causes
Causes of Bunions
- Congenital deformities
- Ankle Injuries
- Neuromuscular disorders
- Flat Feet
- Low arches
- Inflammatory joint disease
- Arthritic patients
- Wearing tight shoes
- Occupations that cause undue stress and pressure on the feet
Symptoms of Bunions
- Redness, swelling and pain in the affected area
- Emergence of a firm bump at the outward edge of the foot
- Limited and painful movement of the big toe
- Irritation and itching caused by toes that overlap
Treatment Options for Bunions Katy TX
Home Treatment
- Always have your feet properly sized whenever you buy shoes
- Wear comfortable shoes that have a roomy toe box
- Avoid excessively high heels of more than 2 inches
- If the bunion in becoming painful, treat it with ice packs numerous times a day to avoid swelling
Office Treatment
Medical treatment options vary with the severity of the bunion. Bunions, if left untreated, can become more painful, requiring medical evaluation.
Padding and Taping
Padding diminishes pain and enables one to continue an active life. Taping aids in keeping the foot at a regular position, which reduces stress and pain.
Medication
In order to reduce inflammation produced by bunions, anti-inflammatory drugs, as well as cortisone injections may be recommended
Physical Therapy
Cures inflammation
Orthotics
Shoe inserts can reduce bunion symptoms and may stop it from becoming worse
Permanent Treatment
When conservation treatment options fail to be effective, permanent treatment of the bunion is the only solution to relieve pain and pressure. An outpatient procedure will remove the bony prominence that is the cause of pain, and restore the normal functioning of the toe joint.
You can resume working after two to three days. For instance, if you have the procedure on Thursday, you may return to work on Monday. However, some swelling and pain may occur for a few weeks after the surgery, but can be managed with pain medication.
To schedule a bunion evaluation, please call 281-395-FEET (3338) to meet with our doctors. During your visit, our podiatrists will provide a thorough assessment and personalized treatment recommendations for painful or noticeable bunions. We proudly serve patients from Katy and Cypress, TX.
Common Questions on Bunion Pain and Treatment
Below are answers to common questions about bunions and available treatment options.
What is a bunion?
A bunion is a bony bump that forms at the base of the big toe due to joint misalignment.
What causes bunions?
They are often caused by genetics, improper footwear, and foot structure issues.
How are bunions treated?
Treatment may include supportive footwear and Custom Inserts & Orthotics.
Do bunions get worse over time?
Yes, without treatment, bunions can progressively worsen and cause increased pain.
Bunion Specialists Serving Katy, Cypress & Fort Bend County
If you are experiencing ongoing bunion pain, swelling, or difficulty wearing shoes, it’s time to seek professional care. Early treatment can help slow progression and improve comfort.
Our board-certified podiatrists — Dr. James M. Jacobs, Dr. Alyssa Pham, and Dr. Alecia Williams — provide expert bunion care for patients throughout Katy, Cypress, Cinco Ranch, Richmond, and Fort Bend County.
