HBunions are uncomfortable bumps that most often form on the sides of the feet near the base of the big toe, on the metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint. They typically grow larger over time, so if you notice a bump developing, you should contact your podiatrist in Austin, TX, for treatment. Note that one form of bunion, called “bunionettes,” forms not on the side of the big toe but on the side of the pinky toe.

The Problem of Bunions

These bumps aren’t just unsightly. They can be extremely painful. They also affect the gait or the foot mechanics when walking, standing or running. But one of the most inconvenient aspects of having bunions is that they make it very difficult to find footwear that fits. This can be a vicious circle because if shoes are too tight because of the bunions, that can make the bunion even worse. Bunions often cause the affected toe to lift up over the abutting toe, creating an unnatural hump that also complicates finding shoes that fit correctly.

What Causes Bunions?

Although there is a form of bunions that is congenital, most bunions are formed from inordinate pressure on that area of the foot. This pressure is most common in shoes that are too tight, or that push the toe into an unnatural position. The main culprits when it comes to bunion-causing shoes are high heels. High heels not only squeeze the toes together; they also lift the back of the foot, so the weight of the body is pushed forward onto the balls of the feet.

How Are Bunions Formed?

Bunions are formed when unnatural bone growth occurs in the area with the extra pressure. This bone growth creates a bump that is often red and inflamed. Essentially, it creates a foot deformity. The first stage in the formation of a bunion happens when the extra pressure causes the bone to be pushed out of place. This forces the joint at the base of your big toe to stick out. Bunions are made of a combination of bone and tissue.

Bunion treatment in Austin, TX, and Pflugerville, TX is available at the podiatrist’s office of Jeffrey LaMour. Contact us for an assessment and to learn about treatment options.

Tired of dealing with bunion pain? These bony bumps can sure be a pain in the foot, and seeking bunion treatment in Austin, TX is always recommended. However, as you wait for your appointment, there may be a few things you can do to find some relief at home.

1. Use hot and cold therapy on your aching feet

Heat packs, ice water soaks, and even massage can help with some bunion pain. The bunion hurts because of the undue stress on the joint and the inflammation that surrounds it. Therefore, anything you can do to bring down the levels of inflammation will likely offer some level of relief. See how your bunions respond to different things to determine what brings you the most relief.

2. Consider wearing a splint while you sleep

Foot splints for bunions are designed to straighten the affected toe, which may potentially alleviate some of the pain you feel the next day. Foot splints for bunion pain can be purchased at most medical device stores but should be discussed with a doctor before use. Talk to the foot doctor about wearing a foot splint while you sleep to help with the discomfort.

3. Protect the bunion inside your shoes

If you have to be up and about despite the bunion, look at ways to protect that area of your foot. For example, you can purchase gel pads that stick to the bunion and prevent it from rubbing the inside of your shoe when you walk. This protection may also help reduce callus formation and friction lesions that can also be a source of bunion pain.

Talk to a Podiatrist in Austin About Bunion Treatment

Buinion pain can seriously inhibit your ability to move as much as you want. If you’re tired of dealing with bunions, seeking treatment from a podiatrist in Austin, TX is important. Ready to schedule an appointment? Call us at the office of Dr. jeffery Lamour DPM, PA.

Bunions are a common foot problem that many people experience, and yet many people have questions about what bunions are, and how they’re treated. It’s normal to have questions about bunions in Austin TX.

In this FAQ, we’ll explore answers to these questions. If you think you may have bunions, we hope this FAQ can help! For more information about bunions and how they work, call Dr. Jeffrey Lamour, DPM, PA.

What is a bunion?

A bunion is a bump on the base of the big toe, at the joint. The bump forms when certain bones in the foot move out of place, causing the end of the big toe to point inward and the joint to point outward. Bunions can be painful.

What causes bunions?

Many things can cause bunions including poor footwear, foot deformities and certain foot injuries.

Can bunions be treated?

Bunions can be treated surgically if needed, or they can be treated with non-surgical treatments such as ice, special footwear, padding and shoe footwear. Your foot doctor can help you determine what kind of treatment is best for your bunions. For quick relief, see a foot doctor as soon as you’ve noticed the bunion.

How can you tell it’s a bunion?

Most people can tell when they have a bunion simply by looking at it. However, if you’re feeling uncertain, you can check with a foot doctor for confirmation. Your foot doctor can diagnose the condition and make recommendations for treatment.

How are bunions treated?

Do you need bunion treatment? Contact your foot doctor in Austin TX. Call Dr. Jeffrey Lamour, DPM, PA today to make an appointment and find out more about getting your bunions cared for.

Studies suggest that about 23 percent of people from 18 to 65 have bunions. What are these growths on the feet and how are they treated? Here is a look at a few important things every person with bunions should know.

Bunions are caused by several things.

Bunions can have several causation factors, such as:

• Deformities that were present when you were born
• Injuries to the foot or repeated foot stress
• Genetics or having a certain foot type

Wearing tight shoes can cause a problem.

People who spend a lot of time in high heels, shoes that come to a narrow point, or shoes that are too narrow for their feet are more prone to having bunions. The pressure on the foot can cause a deformity related to the bones of the feet being pushed forward. Make sure you wear shoes that allow your toes a little room to move. There should also be a little space between the end of your big toe and the edge of your shoe.

Corns and calluses can actually be related to bunions.

If you have a lot of issues with corns and calluses, it can be a sign that you are also dealing with bunions, so take a good look at your feet. Corns and calluses are indicative of high points of localized weight or pressure, which can be related to a bunion. Some people who have bunions naturally shift weight to other parts of their feet, which can cause corns and calluses to form.

Complications of bunions are common.

If you never have any issues with your bunions, consider yourself lucky. Some people develop more serious conditions with their bunions, such as hammertoe, bursitis, or even metatarsalgia, which causes severe pain, tenderness, and swelling in the ball of your foot. Bunion surgery may be necessary if the bunion grows too large, which can happen in some cases.

Contact Us for Help with Bunions

Bunions can be unsightly and painful, and there are treatment options available with the help of a qualified podiatrist. If you have issues with bunions, reach out to us at the office of Dr. Jeffrey Lamour DPM, PA to schedule an appointment or to get further information.