3 Bunion Treatment Options

If bunions are causing you pain in Elgin, IL & Chicago, IL, treatment is only a step away.

Prairie Foot and Ankle know that bunions can make even walking difficult. Even worse, this common condition, which results from structural deformities in the foot and toes, gets progressively more severe over time. Fortunately, treatment is available.

And, you have options. At Prairie Foot and Ankle, Dr. Supreet Ghuman and his team specialize in bunions and relieving its symptoms. To help, the clinic discusses these three treatment options.

At-home treatment

The first step is always a diagnosis. Start by visiting a podiatrist. If they determine you have bunions but the symptoms aren't yet severe, they may recommend one of the following at-home remedies.

• Switch shoes. Tight footwear is a primary cause of bunions. This restricts and smashes the bones in the foot. Select shoes that have a wide toe area. Avoid high heels or similar shoes, which may make your condition worse.
• Add padding. Foam or gel inserts can increase support and aid in realigning toes. Although your doctor may prefer specific products, many options can be purchased at a drug store.
• Modify activity. Changes in lifestyle can make bunions more bearable. Standing for long periods of time is harmful.
• Take over-the-counter medication. An anti-inflammatory, like ibuprofen, can drastically reduce pain and inflammation.
• Ice regularly. As is the case with most inflammatory issues, rest and ice should be incorporated to limit pain.

Non-surgical options

In Elgin, IL & Chicago, IL, bunions may require additional treatment. Prairie Foot and Ankle may suggest some of these non-surgical options.

• Take an injection. A cortisone injection, administered by a doctor, can help with pain management.
• Use an orthotic. When bunions become more problematic, custom orthotic devices help redirect a foot's bones to their proper location.

Surgical procedures

The goal of surgery is to minimize pain. Surgery is only recommended as a last resort when all other treatments have failed to provide relief. To choose the correct procedure, a doctor will examine X-rays and evaluate your age, activity level, and other health factors. Surgery could include cutting and removing a bunion, a fusion of some bones, or some combination of techniques. Although every case is different and recovery time may vary, most bunion surgeries are outpatient procedures.

Schedule an appointment immediately

Walk into Prairie Foot and Ankle for pain relief. Dr. Ghuman offers a variety of treatment options for bunions in Elgin, IL & Chicago, IL. Contact either location at (224) 227-6973 to set up a consultation today.