Bunions

Welcome to the Bunion Center at Foot & Ankle Associates. A Bunion is a bony deformity of the foot at the big toe joint which is usually hereditary and tends to get worse over time. There is usually a large, red bump with the big toe leaning toward the second toe which can be painful to touch and with pressure. Bunions typically vary in size and degree of pain and are usually irritated by tight fitting shoes or prolonged activities on the feet. Symptoms include swelling, pain, burning sensation and sometimes numbness along the side of the big toe. Although most bunions are pretty obvious, x-rays are done to fully evaluate the degree of the deformity and the condition of the joint and are invaluable when planning for bunion surgery.

 

Why We Are Different
As the founder and medical director of the Bunion Center at FAA, Dr. Vargas has extensive training in the diagnosis and treatment of bunions along with extensive experience and accomplishment in the operating room. Using the latest diagnostic and surgical equipment, Dr. Vargas has performed many successful procedures to restore normal foot function to his patients.
So what sets us apart?

  1. Patients experience little to no pain after surgery
  2. Patients walk immediately after surgery
  3. Patients are able to resume regular activities within just a few weeks

On this page you will find information on the procedures, techniques and protocols that allow us to accomplish this. Feel free to browse and click on the tabs or email the doctor yourself if you have any questions.

Remember, bunion pain is not normal. Many patients deal with bunion pain for too long and it begins to slowly diminish their ability to exercise or participate in everyday activities which can lead to compromised health and even depression. If you are beginning to have bunion pain, it is strongly recommended that you see a podiatrist as soon as possible for a thorough exam since bunions tend to get progressively worse over time. Treatment can range from a change in shoes, padding, orthotics (shoe inserts) and physical therapy to surgery. As with most medical conditions, the sooner you seek care the more effective results you'll have when being treated.

A bunion is a bone deformity caused by an enlargement of the joint at the base and side of the big toe (metatarsophalangeal joint). Bunions form when the toe moves out of place. The enlargement and its protuberance cause friction and pressure as they rub against footwear. Over time, the movement of the big toe angles in toward the other toes, sometimes overlapping a third toe (known as Hallux Varus). The growing enlargement or protuberance then causes more irritation or inflammation. In some cases, the big toe moves toward the second toe and rotates or twists, which is known as Hallus Abducto Varus. Bunions can also lead to other toe deformities, such as hammertoe.

Many people with bunions suffer from discomfort and pain from the constant irritation, rubbing, and friction of the enlargement against shoes. The skin over the toe becomes red and tender. Because this joint flexes with every step, the bigger the bunion gets, the more it hurts to walk. Over time, bursitis or arthritis may set in, the skin on the bottom of the foot may become thicker, and everyday walking may become difficult—all contributing to chronic pain.

Wearing shoes that are too tight is the leading cause of bunions. Bunions are not hereditary, but they do tend to run in families, usually because of a faulty foot structure. Foot injuries, neuromuscular problems, flat feet, and pronated feet can contribute to their formation. It is estimated that bunions occur in 33 percent of the population in Western countries.

Treatment for Bunions

Because they are bone deformities, bunions do not resolve by themselves. The goal for bunion treatment is twofold: first, to relieve the pressure and pain cause by irritations, and second to stop any progressive growth of the enlargement. Commonly used methods for reducing pressure and pain caused by bunions include:

  • The use of protective padding, often made from felt material, to eliminate the friction against shoes and help alleviate inflammation and skin problems.
  • Removal of corns and calluses on the foot.
  • Changing to carefully fitted footwear designed to accommodate the bunion and not contribute toward its growth.
  • Orthotic devices—both over-the-counter and custom made—to help stabilize the joint and place the foot in the correct position for walking and standing.
  • Exercises to maintain joint mobility and prevent stiffness or arthritis.
  • Splints for nighttime wear to help the toes and joint align properly. This is often recommended for adolescents with bunions, because their bone development may still be adaptable.

Surgical Treatment

Depending on the size of the enlargement, misalignment of the toe, and pain experienced, conservative treatments may not be adequate to prevent progressive damage from bunions. In these cases, bunion surgery, known as a bunionectomy, may be advised to remove the bunion and realign the toe.

 

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