Bunions, or hallux valgus, are a common foot condition where the big toe shifts toward the other toes, creating a bony bump at the base of the toe. This deformity can cause pain, swelling, and difficulty wearing shoes, especially as it progresses. At Reisinger Farmer Podiatry in Evansville, IN, Dr. Charlotte Reisinger and Dr. Dusky Farmer specialize in diagnosing and treating bunions using both conservative and surgical approaches to restore comfort and mobility.

Understanding the Cause of Bunions

Bunions typically result from a combination of genetic factors, foot anatomy, poor footwear, or underlying conditions such as arthritis. Your Reisinger Farmer Podiatry podiatrist will evaluate the severity of the deformity and contributing factors during your examination. This enables a tailored treatment plan that is specifically designed for you.

Non-Surgical Treatments for Bunions

For mild to moderate bunions, Dr. Reisinger and Dr. Farmer typically recommend non-surgical treatment. Shoes with a low heel and a wide toe box to decrease pressure on the bunion are often the first step in relieving bunions. Custom orthotic inserts may also be worn to redistribute weight and realign the foot.

Other treatments may also involve using bunion pads, taping the toe, taking anti-inflammatory drugs, and performing exercises that stretch the toes. These treatments will not eliminate the bunion, but they can decrease pain and slow down its progression, allowing you to stay active and comfortable.

When Surgery Is Necessary

If non-surgical treatments haven’t provided enough relief and bunion pain is affecting your daily routine, surgery may be a viable option. A bunionectomy, or bunion surgery, corrects the deformity by realigning the toe joint. Depending on the severity, your podiatrist may remove the bony prominence, reposition the bones, or, in some cases, fuse the joint to restore function.

At Reisinger Farmer Podiatry, most bunion surgeries are performed on an outpatient basis. Recovery includes personalized post-operative instructions, physical therapy when needed, and scheduled follow-up visits to support proper healing and reduce the risk of recurrence.

Preventing Future Bunions

After treatment, the team at Reisinger Farmer Podiatry will help you take steps to prevent future bunions. This may include ongoing use of orthotics, footwear recommendations, and maintaining a healthy weight to minimize foot strain. Routine checkups can also detect early signs of recurrence or other foot concerns.

Contact Reisinger Farmer Podiatry Today

If you're experiencing bunion pain or changes in your foot shape, don’t wait to get help. Call Reisinger Farmer Podiatry in Evansville, IN, to schedule a consultation with Dr. Charlotte Reisinger or Dr. Dusky Farmer. Reach the office at (812) 421-8555 and take the first step toward pain relief and healthier feet.