Bunion Treatment in Alexandria, VA
Bunions indicate a bone misalignment in your foot, and they only worsen without treatment. At Landmark Foot & Ankle Center in Alexandria, VA , our podiatric surgeons relieve bunion pain with conservative care and correct the deformity with advanced minimally invasive bunion surgery when needed.
Book OnlineWhat Are Bunions?
Bunions are hard, bony bumps that form at the base of the big toe and protrude from the side of the foot. Smaller bunions, called bunionettes or tailor’s bunions, can develop at the base of the pinky toe.
A bunion is a change in the metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint, where your foot and big toe bones meet. Bunions start when the bones in this joint drift out of their normal positions. Because this is a gradual process, bunions usually develop slowly, but without treatment, the bones continue to shift and the bump grows larger.
Bunion Symptoms
- A visible bump on the side of the big toe joint
- Pain and soreness, especially in shoes
- Red, inflamed, or swollen skin
- Corns and calluses where the toes overlap
- A stiff big toe with limited motion
Severe bunions can make it difficult to walk normally and may contribute to hammertoes, Morton’s neuroma, and general foot pain.
What Causes Bunions?
Inherited foot structure is the main cause of bunions. Neuromuscular disorders, traumatic foot injuries, and congenital deformities can also cause them. If you have arthritis, flat feet, or often wear high heels or narrow shoes, you’re more likely to develop a bunion. Good footwear choices and regular checkups can help slow progression.
Non-Surgical Bunion Treatment
There are many ways to ease bunion pain and other troublesome symptoms. Your podiatrist may recommend:
- Shoes with a wider toe box
- Bunion pads and spacers
- Prescription custom orthotics to improve foot mechanics
- Icing and anti-inflammatory medication
- Weight management to reduce pressure on the feet
These conservative methods can relieve symptoms, but they can’t reduce the physical size of the bunion.
Minimally Invasive Bunion Surgery
If you have a severe bunion that causes unmanageable pain, corrective surgery may be the best option. Landmark Foot & Ankle Center offers minimal incision surgery (MIS) and traditional bunion surgery. An MIS bunionectomy uses several very small incisions, while a traditional bunionectomy uses one longer incision. Our surgeons, Dr. Philip P. Garrett and Dr. Victoria Nolte, make every effort to minimize scarring, swelling, and tissue damage for excellent functional and cosmetic results.
Most bunion surgery patients can walk immediately and are back in regular shoes by about six weeks after the procedure. Learn more about the other conditions we treat or our full range of podiatry services.
Bunion FAQs
Will my bunion go away on its own?
No. Bunions are a structural change in the joint and typically worsen over time. Conservative care can relieve symptoms, but only surgery corrects the deformity.
What is minimally invasive bunion surgery?
Minimally invasive bunion surgery corrects the deformity through several very small incisions, typically resulting in less swelling, less scarring, and a faster recovery than traditional surgery.
Can I walk after bunion surgery?
Most patients can walk immediately after surgery in a protective shoe or boot and are back in regular shoes by about six weeks.
Can orthotics help bunions?
Custom orthotics can improve foot mechanics and relieve pressure, which may reduce pain and slow progression, but they cannot reverse a bunion.
What shoes are best for bunions?
Choose shoes with a wide, deep toe box, a low heel, and soft uppers. Avoid narrow, pointed, or high-heeled shoes.
Are bunions hereditary?
Yes. Inherited foot structure is the main cause of bunions, although footwear, arthritis, and flat feet also contribute.
When should I consider bunion surgery?
Consider surgery when bunion pain limits your daily activities, conservative treatments haven’t helped, or the deformity continues to worsen.
Get Relief From Bunion Pain
Find out whether conservative care or minimally invasive bunion surgery is right for you. Call (703) 370-2313 or request an appointment online with Landmark Foot & Ankle Center in Alexandria, VA .
