Your podiatrists in Albany, NY, can help you get relief from painful bunions.

You rely on your feet to get you around, but if you have a bunion, walking around can be difficult. Even putting on shoes can be agonizing. You don’t have to suffer, because your podiatrist can help you get relief from bunions.

Dr. Marc Ginsburg and Dr. Steven Lam at Capital Region Foot Care in Albany, NY, offer a full range of podiatry services, including treatments for bunions.

So, what is a bunion? It’s a bony lump sticking out next to your big toe. It can rub against the inside of your shoe, causing inflammation, pain, and irritation. A small bunion can also grow into a larger bunion because of irritation and inflammation.

Bunions are caused by a bone deformity that causes your big toe joint to stick outward. Wearing shoes that are too narrow makes the problem worse, because there is not enough room for your toes, and your toes get crushed together. High heels add to the problem because they push the toes forward.

Other causes of bunions include medical conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, an injury to your feet, or high levels of foot stress.

If you have a small bunion, you may be able to get relief if you:

• Place ice on the bunion several times each day
• Tape the bunion to provide support
• Wear inserts to cushion the bunion
• Wear wider footwear, with more room for your toes
• Take over-the-counter pain and anti-inflammatory medication

For larger, painful bunions, your podiatrist can help. Professional treatments for bunions include:

• Callus and corn removal to eliminate friction
• Custom-made orthotics to support your feet
• Stretching and physical therapy to regain mobility
• Night splints to realign your foot and toe

For large bunions with significant bone involvement, surgery, known as a bunionectomy, may be needed. Your podiatrist can discuss this option with you.

To find out more about the causes and treatment of bunions, talk with an expert. Call Dr. Ginsburg and Dr. Lam of Capital Region Foot Care in Albany, NY, at (518) 465-3515. Save your feet by calling today!