Bunions Specialist
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Neil H Hecht, DPM
Podiatrist & Foot and Ankle Surgeon located in Tarzana, CA
Tight, narrow shoes and high heels often lead to bunions. Bunions can be more than an inconvenience. In fact, they can be downright disruptive and painful. After a thorough evaluation, Neil H Hecht, DPM, can prescribe conservative treatments or, if necessary, recommend surgery for your bunion. If your big toe looks crooked and it has become difficult to wear shoes comfortably, call the office in Tarzana, California, or make an appointment online to find relief from your bunions.
Bunions Q & A
What are bunions?
Bunions are a common condition and develop over time. They reflect a change in the anatomy of your foot. The formation of bunions begins with your big toe pointing toward your second toe.
This malalignment is because the joint at the base of your big toe carries most of your weight when you walk.
Over time, bunions cause severe and constant pain as your joint becomes stiff and sore. Other symptoms include:
- Protruding bump outside your big toe
- Swelling and redness around your big toe joint
- Corns or calluses where your first and second toes overlap
Bunions often make it agonizing to wear shoes or find shoes that fit comfortably.
How are bunions diagnosed?
While Dr. Hecht typically diagnoses bunions as part of a physical examination of your feet, X-rays can help determine the severity and what, if any, damage the bunion has caused. This information allows him to determine the best course of treatment for you.
How are bunions treated?
The only way to get rid of bunions is through surgery. However, there are more conservative approaches that help alleviate pain and slow the growth of your bunions. These include:
Comfortable shoes
Shoes should feel comfortable and roomy. It’s best to try on and walk around in shoes before you purchase them, and not just go by the size stamped on the bottom.
Padding
Non-medicated moleskin or gel-filled bunion pads purchased over-the-counter help cushion the painful area.
Pain Medication
Anti-inflammatory medications like ibuprofen help relieve pain and reduce swelling.
Ice
Apply ice to your big toe for 20 minutes at a time, several times a day to reduce swelling.
If the above approaches fail to provide relief, there are several surgical procedures Dr. Hecht may recommend for bunions, including:
- Removal of swollen tissue
- Removing part of your bone to straighten your big toe
- Realignment to straighten out the abnormal angle
- Permanently joining the bones of your affected joint
There isn't one single approach best for everyone. To discuss the options available to ease the discomfort of your bunions, call or make an appointment online today at the office of Neil H Hecht, DPM.
