Get Relief from Bunions 

Bunions, or hallux valgus, are characterized as a bony lump at the joint of your big toe and your foot. A bunion forms when your big toe pushes against the toe next to it. This causes the joint of the big toe to get larger and stick out.

Common causes of bunions include wearing shoes that are too tight or narrow, an inherited defect or a medical condition like arthritis.

Bunion Causes

In some cases, bunions are caused by an inherited foot structure. The most common cause of bunions is wearing high heels or tight-fitting shoes with pointed toe boxes. The risk of developing a bunion is higher if you have an inflammatory condition like arthritis, or a neuromuscular condition like cerebral palsy.

If you’d like to know more about treatment for bunions in Williamsport, Lock Haven, Lewisburg, Berwick, Wellsboro or Muncy, PA, visit your nearest UPMC location for treatment. 

Bunion Symptoms

The most common bunion symptom is a protrusion at the base of the big toe. The bony lump from a bunion may be painful, sore, swollen or red. Joint stiffness can make it hard to walk at times. Symptoms of bunions can get worse when wearing shoes that don’t fit.

Bunion Treatment

Doctors at UPMC try to treat bunions nonsurgically at first. If caught early on, bunions may be treated effectively by wearing wide-toed shoes or using bunion shields and orthotics. Icing and anti-inflammatory medicines may also be helpful. If these nonsurgical methods haven’t been successful, your doctor may recommend surgery.

You can prevent bunions by wearing shoes that fit properly and comfortably.

Orthopedic doctors at UPMC are experienced in providing care for a wide range of conditions, including bunions in Muncy, Lewisburg, Berwick, Lock Haven, Williamsport and Wellsboro, PA.