Bunion Specialist

What causes bunions?

Bunions are deformities that occur in the joint at the base of your big toe, often due to a structural deformity. For instance, if you inherited flat feet or unstable joints, your footwear can increase your risk of developing bunions. Each time you slip on pointy, snug, or high-heeled shoes, your big toe gets shoved on top of (or underneath) your smaller toes.

Over time, your big toe joint starts to change shape and position to accommodate your footwear. This leads to the gradual development of a bunion. But genetics and ill-fitting shoes aren’t the only things to blame when it comes to bunions. Your risk is also high because of:

• High arches 
• Arthritic conditions
• Foot injuries or trauma 
• Neuromuscular conditions, including polio

It’s even possible to develop a bony bump at the base of your baby toe for the same reasons. This condition is known as a bunionette or tailor’s bunion. 

When should I see a podiatrist for bunions?

It’s always best to come into North Texas Foot & Ankle as soon as you start noticing a change in your toe joint or experience any sort of discomfort. Dr. Hausenfluke can provide treatment to stop or delay the progression of your bunion. He recommends coming in as soon as possible if your bunion is:

• Preventing you from exercising or affecting your work functions
• Leading to burning, aching, or throbbing sensations
• Associated with calluses or painful corns

You should also have an evaluation with Dr. Hausenfluke right away if your bunion is so severe, it’s leading to secondary deformities, such as hammertoes or mallet toes. 

Which bunion treatment is the most effective?

At North Texas Foot & Ankle, you can receive all of your essential imaging services right in the office. Once Dr. Hausenfluke determines the severity of your bunion, he talks with you about all of your treatment options. For maximum effectiveness, Dr. Hausenfluke often recommends combining any of the following solutions:

• Physical therapy
• Specialized padding 
• Changes in footwear
• Activity modifications
• Strapping and taping 
• Custom orthotic inserts
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)

If you can’t get the relief you need through conservative therapies, Dr. Hausenfluke could recommend surgery. Bunion surgery, a minimally invasive procedure, allows Dr. Hausenfluke to permanently correct your toe joint by removing your bunion, realigning your joint, and removing any damaged tissues. 

Get started on your bunion treatment plan by calling North Texas Foot & Ankle or requesting an appointment online.