Bunions Treated in Arlington, VA
A bunion is a bony bump on the side of the foot at the base of the big toe. Most bunions form slowly due to pressure on the big toe joint. The pressure changes the structure of the joint, causing the bones to shift out of alignment. As a result, a bump forms on the joint and the big toe leans toward the other toes.
Although the precise causes of bunions are unclear, the condition is more likely to occur in people who have an inherited foot structure issue, such as flatfoot, which increases the pressure on the big toe joint. Other risk factors include improper walking mechanics and wearing overly tight or high-heeled shoes.
Bunions do not always cause pain or require treatment. However, if yours does, you can receive outstanding care at Nirschl Orthopaedic Center (NOC) in Arlington, Virginia. Dr. Matthew Buchanan, our foot and ankle specialist, is a board-certified, fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeon.
When Do Bunions Require Treatment?
In general, the team at NOC recommends surgery only if a bunion is extremely painful or causes difficulty walking. We do not believe bunion surgery should be performed solely for cosmetic reasons. Many of our patients find that they can manage their mild bunion pain simply by changing their footwear. People with bunions should wear roomy, comfortable shoes at all times. Custom shoe inserts and night splints can also be helpful.
On the other hand, we may suggest bunion surgery to address:
- Foot pain that interferes with daily activities, such as walking a short distance while wearing suitable footwear
- Painful stiffness that makes it difficult to bend and straighten the big toe
- Chronic inflammation and swelling around the big toe joint
- A foot deformity, such as excessive curvature of the big toe
The Latest Advances in Bunion Surgery
For our patients who elect surgical treatment for their bunions, Dr. Buchanan utilizes state-of-the-art minimally invasive bunion correction techniques. As compared to traditional open bunion surgery, minimally invasive bunion surgery involves smaller incisions. This in turn can minimize soft tissue trauma and post-operative pain as well as result in a better cosmetic outcome. After bunion surgery, many patients experience a significant reduction in foot pain and a marked improvement in big toe alignment. Even so, it is still important to wear comfortable, well-fitting shoes.
If you would like to learn more about treatment options for bunions, contact Nirschl Orthopaedic Center at (703) 525-2200 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Buchanan in Arlington, VA.