Bunion Specialist

What are bunions?

Bunions are bony lumps that form on the side of your foot at the big toe joint. Bunions are uncomfortable and if left untreated can become more painful and lead to mobility issues. The pain is due to the joint’s being forced off track and bending toward the second toe. Bunions cause the foot to have different pressure points than before, and this can cause discomfort in certain shoes or boots. Bunions also have the tendency to cause calluses because of increased friction, which can enhance your overall discomfort. Bunions can also lead to other lower body problems because you adjust their gait to avoid foot pain. This ends up putting more pressure on your other other joints at different angles.  

What cause bunions?

A variety of factors contribute to the development of bunions. Genetics play a role, so you have a higher likelihood of developing a bunion if a parent or other relative has bunions. Injury to the foot can also cause bunions to develop, as this disrupts your body mechanics of walking. Occupations that require extended time periods of standing can lead to the development of bunions. There is also a link between wearing high heels or tight shoes with narrow or pointed toes and bunions. Arthritis doesn’t necessarily cause a bunion to develop, but it can make bunion pain worse. Orthotics can control the deforming forces causing the bunion thereby slowing the progression of the deformity.

What is bunion surgery?

After an extensive evaluation by Dr. Geltzer or Dr. Rapoport, if more conservative treatments like orthotics, physical therapy, cortisone injections, bracing and physiological rest don’t provide relief, severe bunions may require surgery. This is especially recommended if your life and overall well being are negatively affected and can’t perform the same activities you once could.

During surgery, the doctor cuts and adjust the bones and ligaments in your joint to correct the alignment and remove any excess bony tissue. The bone is cut and adjusted to match the desired direction and angle. In some cases, your doctor may fuse the bones to ensure your joint stays in correct alignment.

Your doctor may also shave away excess bone tissue to remove the cause of any deformity and reduce your pain. In some cases, the doctor may add a screw or wire mesh to help the toe stay in place. Dr. Geltzer and Dr. Rapoport are skilled in treating and removing bunions and can implement surgical interventions to help with healing and a return to functioning.