Do Bunions Require Surgery?

Bunions are a common foot condition that occur in about one-third of American adults. If you have a bunion, you may be wondering if you need to have surgery to correct it.

At Foot & Ankle Specialists in Memorial City, The Woodlands, and Huntsville, Texas, we specialize in the diagnosis of bunions and help you manage the symptoms they cause. Our team of podiatrists can also perform surgery when needed to protect the integrity of your feet, so you can stay mobile and active.

Why you have a bunion

A bunion is a bony bump that forms on the joint of your big toe. The bump develops gradually when pressure from a tight shoe pushes your joint sideways toward your second toe.

You may also be prone to bunions due to genetic conditions that affect the structures of your feet or because of issues like:

• Flat feet
• Osteoarthritis
• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Joint misalignments or injuries

Women may also be at higher risk for bunions due to their foot anatomy or frequently wearing narrow or high-heeled shoes.

Recognizing symptoms of a bunion

Bunions grow slowly, and the bump on your big toe joint may start small but worsen over time. You may initially see or feel the bump on your joint without experiencing other symptoms.

As the bunion progresses, you may find wearing shoes difficult and painful. Bunion pain can also intensify as the bump forces your big toe to the side. In severe cases, a bunion can move your second toe out of alignment.

Other symptoms of a bunion include:

• Redness
• Swelling
• Calluses
• Joint stiffness
• Difficulties walking

Our providers can confirm a bunion during a physical exam of your foot. They may also request X-rays to evaluate the severity of your joint misalignment.

When to consider surgery for a bunion

The initial treatment plan for bunions includes footwear changes, protective pads, and shoe inserts or other orthotics. Our team can also recommend over-the-counter or prescription anti-inflammatories and pain relievers to decrease your discomfort.

When the bend in your toe is severe or your symptoms prevent you from working or doing other activities, our podiatrists can determine if you’re a candidate for surgery. We offer outpatient procedures so you can begin your recovery quickly.

The goal of bunion surgery is to correct the misalignment in your toe joints and the supporting tendons and ligaments. Our foot and ankle surgeons use minimally invasive techniques to repair damaged joints through small incisions.

What to expect during your recovery from bunion surgery

Following bunion surgery, you'll need some downtime to heal fully. Many people can bear weight on their treated foot soon after their procedure when wearing a specialized shoe. You may also need to use assistive devices while your incisions heal.

You should experience a significant reduction in pain after surgery. Bunion-related symptoms will continue to resolve during your recovery.

Preventing new bunions from forming is a priority. Our podiatrists can recommend footwear that supports your feet and won’t press on your joints. We can also provide additional educational resources to keep your feet in great condition.

Call our Foot & Ankle Specialists office near you today to schedule a bunion evaluation, or book an appointment online anytime.