Don’t let a bunion slow you down. Find out how to keep it from getting worse.

A bunion is one of the most common foot deformities, most often affecting the joint at the base of the big toe. If you notice that this joint juts out further than it should, you might have a bunion. As the bunion progresses, you may see the big toe leaning in on the other toes. Of course, the goal of our Woodbridge, VA, podiatrist Dr. Ranieri is to make sure that you follow the proper regimen and treatment plan to prevent your bunion from getting worse.

I think I have a bunion? What’s next?

If you notice that this joint sticks out or if it causes you pain when walking or wearing shoes, then you may want to schedule an appointment with a foot doctor who can easily diagnose a bunion just by examining your foot. While a bunion is usually nothing to worry about, it is essential that you properly care for your feet to reduce your chances of swelling and pain. Our Woodbridge, VA, podiatrist can certainly map out a treatment plan to manage your bunions.

How do I treat a bunion?

While the only way to truly correct a bunion is through surgery, this is rarely recommended unless the patient is dealing with severe and persistent pain affecting their quality of life. In fact, following simple everyday practices can go a long way to reducing your bunion pain. Here are some things you can do to ease symptoms and also prevent them from surfacing,

• Wear properly fitted shoes: It’s important that you wear shoes that don’t bunch up your toes and give your toes room to wiggle and move around. Shoes should also not put pressure on the bunion. Avoid shoes with a high heel over 2-inches tall or shoes with a pointed toe.
• Ice your bunion: When pain or inflammation sets in, you can apply a towel-wrapped ice pack to the area to reduce your symptoms. Leave the ice on for about 10-15 minutes and ice up to three times a day.
• Get custom shoe inserts: Our Woodbridge, VA, foot doctor can help you is to create custom orthotics to place in your shoes. Orthotics can redistribute the weight evenly and prevent additional pressure and force from being placed on the bunion.
• Use a splint: While splinting the foot will not correct the deformity, it can place the foot into the proper alignment, which will take the pressure off the joint and affected bone and tissue to reduce pain and discomfort.

Are you wondering whether a bunion could be causing your foot pain? If so, the next step is to schedule an evaluation with our Woodbridge, VA, podiatrist Dr. Ranieri and the team at Lake Ridge Podiatry. Call us today at (703) 491-2603.