Whether you are working long shifts, staying active with family, or simply trying to get through the day without discomfort, foot pain can take a real toll. For many people, bunions are a common and often-worsening source of that pain.
The good news is you don’t have to just live with it. From simple, at-home strategies to advanced minimally invasive procedures, there are effective ways to find relief and get back to moving comfortably.
What is a bunion?
A bunion forms when the joint at the base of the big toe shifts out of alignment. Over time, this creates a noticeable bump that can become painful and swollen, and makes it difficult to find comfortable shoes.
If left untreated, bunions can worsen and may lead to arthritis or cause damage to joint cartilage, making early attention important.
Can bunions be treated without surgery?
While bunions do not go away on their own, early symptoms can often be managed with simple changes.
Wear wider, more supportive shoes to reduce pressure on the joint and use inserts, spacers, or bunion pads to improve alignment and comfort throughout the day. Anti-inflammatory medications can also help manage pain and swelling.
When is surgery the right option?
When these strategies are no longer enough, it may be time to explore surgical options to remove the bunion and realign the big toe joint.
Mena Shafiek, DPM, foot and ankle surgeon, says the podiatry team at Adena Orthopedic and Spine Institute works closely with patients to find the best path forward.
“Our goal is always to start with non-surgical approaches,” Dr. Shafiek said. “But when surgery is the best choice, we’re able to offer a minimally invasive technique that helps patients recover more comfortably and return to their daily routines sooner.”
Consider surgery if:
- Non-surgical methods no longer relieve your pain.
- Discomfort becomes persistent and affects your quality of life.
- The deformity worsens or begins to impact other toes.
- Your mobility becomes limited.
A minimally invasive approach
When surgery is the right choice, Adena Health offers a minimally invasive approach using smaller incisions than traditional procedures, helping reduce trauma to surrounding tissue.
This technique can lead to:
- Less swelling and pain after surgery
- A quicker return to daily activities
- A smoother overall recovery experience
Many patients are able to begin putting weight on the foot in a walking boot shortly after the surgery, with full recovery within six weeks.
Take the next step toward relief
You don’t have to push through foot pain. If bunions are limiting your work, movement, play, or daily comfort, Adena Podiatry can help find the best treatment option for you. Call 740-779-4598 to schedule an appointment or visit Adena.org/Podiatry.