How your podiatrist can help you get relief from bunion pain

Bunions are one of the most common problems your podiatrist treats. In fact, your podiatrist is an expert at treating bunions. Dr. Gregory Cardinal at Podiatrist in Motion provides comprehensive podiatry services, including treatment for bunions in Alexandria, Arlington, Fairfax, Reston, Leesburg, Warrenton, VA and surrounding areas including Washington, DC and Maryland.

Bunions are caused by a genetic bone deformity which makes your big toe joint protrude outward. The big toe joint rubs against the inside of your shoe, causing irritation and inflammation. Over time, the irritation and inflammation cause a bunion to form.

Women are more prone to bunions because women often wear narrow shoes with a pointed toe, which forces the toes together. High heels add to the problem by pushing the toes forward.

Other factors that can make you more prone to bunion formation include:

• Genetics
• Arthritis
• Foot stress
• Foot or toe injuries

When you have a bunion, you probably will:

• Notice a hard, bony growth on the side of your big toe
• Feel swelling, inflammation, and pain around the toe joint
• Notice calluses and corns forming on the adjacent toes
• Experience recurring pain near the bunion
• Have stiffness and loss of mobility in your toe

To treat a small bunion at home, you can try:

• Placing ice on the bunion to reduce swelling
• Applying athletic tape to add support
• Wearing shoe inserts to cushion the bunion
• Taking over-the-counter pain and anti-inflammatory medications

For larger, more painful bunions, you should seek out professional treatment from a podiatrist, who may recommend:

• Night splints to help realign your toe
• Custom-made footwear and orthotics to provide support
• Corn and callus removal to reduce friction and irritation
• Physical therapy and exercises to increase mobility and flexibility
• Surgical treatment to remove the bunion and realign your toe

To learn more about the causes and treatment of bunions, call today. At Podiatrist in Motion, Dr. Cardinal can provide house calls in Alexandria, Arlington, Fairfax, Reston, Leesburg, Warrenton, VA and surrounding areas including Washington, DC and Maryland. You can reach him in the office by calling (703) 879-5155, so call today.