What are the treatment options for a bunion?
A bunion is a condition of the big toe that causes the main joint to jut out, forming a bump on the side of your foot. Bunion treatment options are many, up to and including surgery. Sometimes a simple change of shoes is all that is needed. Tight shoes can aggravate bunions, so a pair with a roomier toe box is necessary. You can also wear protective pads on the bunion to relieve the pressure on them. Icing and elevation can help with inflammation and swelling, as well as pain. Your doctor may also prescribe medication to relieve these symptoms. Splints and stretches can also be effective in controlling this deformity.If none of these relieve your pain and you are still having trouble wearing shoes and walking, it might be time to start thinking about surgery as an option. All surgery involves some risk, so having bunion surgery should never be done for purely cosmetic reasons. If you have more questions about bunion treatment, call Dr. Mitchell Wachtel at (978) 794-8406 to schedule an appointment at one of our three Massachusetts clinics.
