Bunions Specialist

City Podiatry -  - Podiatrist

City Podiatry

Podiatrists located in Midtown, New York, NY

Bunions are unsightly and can be extremely painful, especially if left untreated. The board-certified podiatrists at City Podiatry in New York City have extensive experience treating common foot problems such as bunions by finding the most effective treatment for your unique situation. Call the office in Midtown Manhattan or schedule an appointment online today to learn more if you have a bunion.

Bunions Q & A

What is a bunion?

A bunion is a bony protuberance at the side of the ball of your foot. It develops after years of undue pressure on the joint at the base of the big toe, which causes the joint to press against the metatarsal bones that lay behind it.

Bunions become more painful over time as they start to press against the inside of your shoes and inflammation increases. The bunion may swell and turn red, and the skin may become stretched and shiny. Bunions can often be highly sensitive and may be too painful to touch.

What causes a bunion?

Bunions develop when your big toe regularly comes under pressure, and you’re more likely to develop a bunion if other people in your family are prone to them. Bunions can form as a result of:

  • Flat feet
  • Hypermobile feet
  • Foot injuries
  • Certain neurological conditions

Wearing unsupportive or restrictive shoes such as high heels, flip flops, or ballet flats can encourage the formation of bunions, especially in those with a genetic predisposition.

Accurate diagnosis of your condition is essential to ensure you receive the most appropriate treatment, and your podiatrist may order diagnostic imaging tests such as X-rays to confirm you have a bunion and check the internal structure of your foot.

What treatments are available for bunions?

In the initial stages, it’s crucial to relieve any external pressure on the bunion, which means replacing your regular footwear with shoes that give your feet more room. Your new shoes should have a minimal heel and provide cushioning and arch support.

Over-the-counter shoe inserts may offer some relief from the discomfort of a bunion, but don’t slow down or reverse its development. Your podiatrist at City Podiatry can create custom orthotics that not only relieve your pain, but also help to support and rebalance your body weight to reduce pressure on your foot.

Physical therapy can help alleviate pressure on your bunion and reduce inflammation. Strengthening exercises also improve your posture and diffuse pressure points. In addition to exercises, your physical therapist may use therapeutic technologies such as:

  • Ultrasound
  • Electric stimulation therapy
  • Cold laser

Your podiatrist might also recommend anti-inflammatory cortisone injections to reduce severe pain and swelling. If your bunions are affecting your ability to walk and not responding to less invasive treatments, surgery may be your best option. City Podiatry offers the innovative Lapiplasty® 3D Bunion Correction™ procedure for such cases.

Bunions can be disabling and extremely painful, but the earlier you seek help from one of the experienced podiatrists at City Podiatry, the better your chances of avoiding such problems. Call the office or schedule an appointment online today.