A bunion is a painful deformity that causes the base of your big toe to jut outward. It appears to be a protruding bone, but it's actually a misaligned joint. This is an important distinction because, without the appropriate treatment, that misalignment will continue to worsen.
But does that mean all bunions require surgery? Most people think they do — and, in many cases, they're correct. Bunions often get to the point that surgery is the only option to improve mobility and relieve pain.
With early intervention, you can avoid surgery altogether by slowing or stopping the progression of the deformity. Ryan Goldfine, DPM, at Ankle & Foot Centers of Georgia, with two locations in Marietta, Georgia, shares what you need to know about preventing bunions from getting worse.
Many people assume that bunions are simply the result of extra bone growth or calcium deposits that develop over time. In reality, a bunion forms when your big toe gradually shifts toward your other toes, forcing the joint at the base to stick out at an angle. The "bump" you see is actually the head of your first metatarsal bone (in the midfoot) being pushed out of its normal position.
This happens because the entire structure of your foot changes. The tendons and ligaments that normally keep your big toe straight become imbalanced. Some stretch and weaken, while others tighten. Over time, this creates a cycle where the toe continues to move further out of alignment.
Understanding this process is crucial because it explains why bunions tend to get worse over time if left untreated. The longer the joint stays misaligned, the more the surrounding soft tissues adapt to the abnormal position, making it increasingly difficult to correct without surgical intervention.
Bunions typically require surgery only if they cause pain or make walking difficult. If your bunion isn't bothering you, don't jump into surgery. But treatment is still essential to prevent your bunion from worsening.
If you’re not ready for bunion surgery, these conservative treatments can help slow progression and keep you comfortable:
Shoes with a wide toe box reduce pressure on the bunion and prevent further irritation. Avoid high heels and pointed-toe shoes that squeeze your toes together.
Orthotic inserts help redistribute weight and correct foot mechanics that contribute to bunion formation. Bunion pads provide cushioning between your toe and shoe.
Manual therapy, stretching and strengthening exercises, and taping can help improve pain, increase flexibility, and slow the progression of symptoms. Focus on exercises that target your toe muscles and help maintain joint mobility.
Ibuprofen or naproxen can reduce pain and swelling during flare-ups. Ice after activity helps manage inflammation and provides temporary relief.
Surgery becomes the best option when conservative treatments fail to provide adequate relief and your bunion significantly impacts your daily life.
If you’ve tried proper footwear, orthotics, and other conservative measures for several months without improvement, surgery may be necessary. Pain that interferes with walking or daily activities is a clear indicator.
Bunions that continue to worsen despite treatment will eventually require surgical correction. The longer you wait, the more complex the surgery becomes.
When even properly fitted, supportive shoes cause pain, conservative treatment has likely reached its limits.
Bunions often lead to hammertoes, calluses, or chronic pain in other areas of the foot. Surgery can prevent these complications from becoming permanent.
Dr. Goldfine specializes in lapiplasty 3D bunion correction at Ankle & Foot Centers of Georgia. Unlike traditional surgery that simply cuts and shifts the bone, lapiplasty addresses the unstable joint that causes bunions in the first place.
This advanced technique rotates the entire bone back into its proper position and secures it with specially-designed titanium plates. Most patients can walk within days of surgery rather than spending weeks in a cast.
Dr. Goldfine also performs traditional bunion surgery when appropriate, but lapiplasty offers faster recovery and lower recurrence rates for most patients with unstable joints or severe deformities.
If your bunion is causing pain or worsening, Dr. Goldfine can help determine the best treatment approach for your specific situation. From conservative care to advanced surgical options like lapiplasty, we'll find a solution that works for you.
Call Ankle & Foot Centers of Georgia at 678-552-1108 or request an appointment online today.
