A bunion is more than just a bump on your big toe—it’s a painful condition that can disrupt your ability to walk, stand, or enjoy everyday activities. They are more prevalent in women and can lead to long-term mobility challenges. Let’s explore some minimally invasive solutions designed to ease your pain and improve your quality of life.
Understanding the Symptoms and Causes of Bunions
Bunions develop gradually and can worsen over time if left untreated. Common symptoms include a visible bump at the base of the big toe, pain, redness, swelling, and restricted movement in the joint. Genetic predisposition, wearing tight or ill-fitting shoes, and foot deformities are contributing factors. Bunions are more common in women, probably due to footwear choices like high heels or narrow shoes.
Minimally Invasive Treatment Options for Bunions
The various conservative and surgical options include:
Custom Orthotics and Footwear Modifications: Custom orthotics or insoles can help redistribute pressure on the foot and alleviate pain. Also wearing wide-toed, comfortable footwear reduces discomfort and slows the progression of bunions.
Physical Therapy and Stretching: Stretching exercises and physical therapy can improve joint mobility and reduce pain. These therapies may be effective in the early stages of bunion development.
Bunion Splints and Pads: Wearing bunion splints at night or silicone pads during the day can help realign the joint and provide cushioning, reducing irritation caused by friction.
Minimally Invasive Bunion Surgery: For severe cases, minimally invasive bunion surgery is a game-changer. Unlike traditional surgery, this procedure uses small incisions to realign the joint and remove the bunion. The combination of Minimally Invasive Chevron and Akin (MICA) Osteotomy procedure work together to correct bunion deformities. The Chevron Osteotomy realigns the first metatarsal bone, while the Akin Osteotomy adjusts the proximal phalanx of the big toe. Benefits include reduced pain, faster recovery, and a lower risk of complications.
Minimally invasive treatments prioritize patient comfort, allowing you to resume daily activities sooner. Schedule a consultation with foot specialist Dr. Daniel M. Dean to explore the best treatments tailored to your needs.
AUTHOR: Dr. Daniel Dean is a board-certified and fellowship-trained foot and ankle orthopaedic surgeon. He treats all musculoskeletal pathologies of the foot and ankle in adolescent and adult patients. He has specialized training in total ankle arthroplasty, sports injuries, flatfoot, complex fractures, and minimally invasive techniques in bunion correction.
