One in three Americans have bunions –– hard bony bumps that form on the outer edge of the big toe. If you have a bunion that keeps you from activities you love, don’t wait to seek treatment. At Kenneth Meisler, DPM, PLLC & Associates, on the Upper East Side of Manhattan, the providers specialize in diagnosing and treating bunions. To make an appointment today, call the office in New York City or click the online booking feature.
request an appointmentWhat are bunions?
A bunion is a bony formation that develops on the outside edge of your big toe. It occurs when the bones at the front of your foot move out of position because of your gait or an abnormal foot structure.
Bunions affect people of all backgrounds, but they’re especially common in women — particularly those who wear high heels or other shoes that crowd the toes.
What are the symptoms of bunions?
Symptoms of bunions include:
- Difficulty bending or wiggling your big toe
- Trouble wearing your regular shoes
- Corns or calluses on the top of your big toe
- Hammertoe
- Numbness
You might also experience pain when standing up or walking, as the bunion grows larger.
When should I see a podiatrist about bunions?
Make an appointment at Kenneth Meisler, DPM, PLLC & Associates if you have a bunion and it interferes with your quality of life. That’s especially true if your symptoms don’t improve with at-home treatments, like ice, rest, and over-the-counter pain medication.
How are bunions diagnosed?
To diagnose a bunion, your Kenneth Meisler, DPM, PLLC & Associates provider reviews your medical records and asks about your symptoms, including when you first noticed the bunion, if it’s growing, and whether it’s painful during certain activities.
Next, your provider examines your foot and toes. They look at the bunion for swelling, redness, or bruising and gently press on it to pinpoint sensitive areas. Your provider also orders X-rays, a CT scan, or an MRI to assess the alignment of the bones and joints at the front of your foot.
How are bunions treated?
Treatment of bunions depends on various things, including your age, the size of the bunion, and its effect on your quality of life. Providers at Kenneth Meisler, DPM, PLLC & Associates usually recommend conservative treatments, like:
- Bunion pads and taping
- Footwear changes
- Custom orthotics
- Pain relievers
- Physical therapy
- Corticosteroid injections
If your symptoms don’t improve with conservative treatments or they affect your mobility, your provider might recommend surgery, called a bunionectomy. During a bunionectomy, your provider realigns the bones at the front of your foot, moving your toe back into the proper position.
To receive treatment for bunions, make an appointment at Kenneth Meisler, DPM, PLLC & Associates by calling the office or booking online today.