Treatment for Bunions

Treatment for Bunions

After finding out you have a bunion, your first question is likely going to be "How can this be treated?" Dr. Richard Lee and Dr. Steven Lin, bunionsyour podiatrists in Sterling or Alexandria, VA, have many patients at Alexandria Family Podiatry who have asked the same question. Below, they've discussed some of the ways bunions are typically managed.

At-home treatment

For mild to moderate bunions, your Sterling or Alexandria podiatrist often recommends wearing splints that can be purchased at most local drugstore chains. Splints hold the toe in a more natural position and gently stretch the soft tissues that have tightened in the area. These devices aren't meant to reverse the bunion, but help to stop it from worsening. Painful bunions often respond well to rest, analgesic medication, and consistent use of shoes that have plenty of room in the toe area. To protect the bunion further, cushioned pads can be applied to the area and worn inside the shoe.

In-office treatment

If the solutions above don't provide relief from your bunion, your Sterling or Alexandria podiatrist may prescribe a custom-made orthotic device to be worn inside the shoe; like non-prescription splints, they help to reposition your joints, but with more exact pressure points and cushioning. You may also respond well to physical therapy exercises. A cortisone injection near the affected joint can also help to reduce inflammation and pain.

Surgery

As with most conditions, surgical correction of bunions is considered a "last resort" if other methods of treatment haven't shown to relieve the problem. There are many different kinds of bunion surgery, but the basic process involves removing the bunion and straightening out the joint. Downtime is often extensive, but many patients see full relief from surgery if they follow the after-care instructions to the letter.

To schedule an appointment with Dr. Lee or Dr. Lin, contact Alexandria Family Podiatry in either Sterling or Alexandria, VA, today!