If you’re living with a bunion, you already know how frustrating and painful it can be. That bony bump on the side of your big toe isn’t just cosmetic. It’s a progressive condition that can impact your comfort, mobility, and quality of life.
One of the most common questions we get at Preferred Foot & Ankle is, “Do I need bunion surgery?” The answer isn’t always simple, but here’s what you should know.
What Is a Bunion, Really?
A bunion (medically known as hallux valgus) is a misalignment of the joint at the base of your big toe. Over time, the joint shifts outward, causing the big toe to move inward toward the second toe. This can cause:
- Pain and inflammation
- Swelling or redness
- Difficulty wearing shoes
- Joint stiffness or limited movement
Bunions can result from genetics, improper footwear, flat feet, or arthritis, and they often worsen without proper care.
Non-Surgical Options
Before one ever considers surgery, the priority is to explore conservative treatment options. Many patients find relief through:
- Custom orthotics to improve alignment and reduce pressure
- Padding or toe spacers to prevent friction
- Footwear changes, wide-toe box shoes are essential
- Anti-inflammatory care to manage swelling and pain
These approaches can often slow bunion progression and ease discomfort enough to avoid or delay surgery.
When Is Surgery the Right Call?
While conservative methods can be effective, they won’t reverse the structural change of a bunion. Surgery may be the best option if:
- Pain is interfering with daily activities
- You’ve exhausted non-surgical treatments
- The deformity is getting worse or impacting other toes
- You can’t find shoes that fit comfortably
At Preferred Foot & Ankle, we specialize in advanced bunion correction procedures that are minimally invasive and designed to help you get back on your feet quickly. We walk you through every step of the process, from diagnosis to recovery, with personalized care and support.es that are minimally invasive and designed to help you get back on your feet quickly. We walk you through every step of the process, from diagnosis to recovery, with personalized care and support.
Don’t Wait Until It Gets Worse
Bunions don’t fix themselves. If you’re experiencing pain or your toe alignment is worsening, it’s time to get evaluated. The earlier we intervene, the more options you’ll have for managing your condition effectively.
Schedule a consultation here or call us at our Gilbert location at (480) 497-3946 or our Chandler location at (480) 561-3734. Let’s put you back in control without the foot pain.