A bunion is a joint foot deformity where your big toe shifts inward toward the other toes, creating a large lump. This lump isn’t a tumor, though. It’s your big toe joint jutting out.
Bunions can develop from genetics, specific foot shapes, tight footwear, or stress on your foot, and unfortunately, they can get worse over time. Not only can bunions cause you to lose mobility in your big toe, but you might also develop corns and calluses when your toes rub together.
While some people find relief through nonsurgical methods like supportive shoes, orthotics, or pain relievers, there are cases when bunion surgery becomes necessary.
As a multispecialty practice with two podiatrists on our team — Nathaniel Alabi, DPM, and Parth Dixit, DPM — the Texas Heart and Vein Multispeciality Group team excels at diagnosing and treating bunions.
Here are the signs it’s time to consider surgery.
Bunion surgery is typically recommended when:
If your bunion pain is persistent and affects your ability to walk, stand, or engage in daily activities (like grocery shopping), surgery may be the best option. Severe bunions can make even short periods of standing painful.
Bunions can make it difficult to move your big toe properly, especially if you also have arthritis. If the joint becomes stiff or loses its range of motion, surgery may be necessary to restore movement and relieve discomfort.
Bunions tend to worsen over time, especially without treatment. A growing bunion can cause your toes to overlap, changing the shape of your foot.
In this case, surgery may help realign your toe and prevent further complications.
When wearing roomier shoes, using orthotic inserts, and physical therapy aren’t managing your pain, it may be time to consider surgery.
Bunion surgery — officially called bunionectomy — can give you lasting relief when other options have failed. Several surgical options exist for bunions, and the right choice depends on your specific condition.
Examples of bunion surgery include:
The good news is that you don’t have to sort through your options alone. Dr. Alabi or Dr. Dixit help you decide on the surgical approach that’s right for you.
Bunion surgery is usually an outpatient procedure, but recovery can take several weeks. Follow your post-operative instructions carefully during this time and complete any physical therapy exercises as prescribed.
While you’ll have to take some downtime after surgery, your patience will pay off in significant pain relief, improved toe alignment, and a return to comfortable walking.
To learn more about your bunion management options, call Texas Heart and Vein Multispecialty Group in Houston, Pearland, or Kingwood, Texas, or request an appointment online.
