Treatment Options for Bunions

There are several treatment options for bunions, and many of them do not require a surgical procedure. However, there are instances where surgery will be needed if the problem is severe enough to interfere with a person’s quality of life. These are just some of the ways this issue is commonly treated.

Non-Surgical Treatment Options for Bunions

The goal of bunion treatment is to provide effective relief of pain while reducing the chances of complications, such as wounds caused by friction, an enlarged toe joint and overlapping toes. One of the most common treatment options for bunions is a prescription for pain in order to reduce inflammation and swelling. In mild instances, your Lewisville podiatrist may simply recommend an over-the-counter pain reliever. You may find that a warm foot bath or a heating pad could help relieve discomfort, but some people also find ice packs to be helpful.

If you have bunions but they have not developed into a serious problem, the only treatment you may need is to switch to a well-fitting shoe. In some instances, splints, shoe inserts or bunion pads may be helpful as long as they do not create undue pressure on other parts of your foot. Orthotic devices or shoes that have specially designed insoles could relieve pressure from the affected area and help your foot return to its proper shape without any other intervention.

Surgical Options

There are some people who will simply not be able to benefit from non-surgical treatment options for bunions because their problem is too severe. If you do need surgery, you will be undergoing a procedure known as a bunionectomy. This is usually performed in a surgical center or a hospital and may involve the use of screws or wires to help keep your bones correctly aligned.

If you would like to learn more about treatment options for bunions, please get in touch with the experts at Southwest Foot and Ankle Center. Call 972-318-2738 in Lewisville, 972-805-9985 in Plano or 972-318-2655 in Irving, or contact us online.