If you suspect that you may be dealing with a bunion or if you are experiencing symptoms such as pain and swelling in your feet, it’s important that you visit our Albany, NY, podiatrists, Dr. Marc Ginsburg and Dr. Steven Lam. Read on to learn if you should turn to our office for treatment.
What is a bunion?
A bunion is a joint deformity at the base of the big toe that can get larger over time, causing the big toe to lean over its smaller neighbors. This is a progressive condition, but with the proper care, you can prevent a bunion from getting worse.
How can I tell that I have a bunion?
Since a bunion usually affects the bone at the base of the big toe, you may notice that the area sticks out. Most of the time, a bunion only affects one foot, so you will likely be able to see a difference between the affected foot and the normal foot. In more advanced stages, the big toe may even lean toward the other toes or overlap.
How is a bunion treated?
There are so many ways to treat a bunion and most of them require simple nonsurgical options. Mild bunions may be relieved with proper footwear, custom orthotics crafted by our Albany, NY, foot doctor, stretching exercises, ice, and over-the-counter pain relievers.
When you come into our office, our podiatry team will create a treatment plan unique to you based on certain factors including your activity level, current health status, lifestyle, and the severity of the bunion.
Do I need surgery?
Your foot doctor will be able to help you determine whether or not you could benefit from surgery. Even though surgery is the only way to completely fix a bunion, that doesn’t mean that it’s a necessary step. In fact, most patients can get the relief they need without surgery, as it is usually only a last-ditch effort to fix the problem when all other treatment options have failed to work. Those dealing with severe pain and restricted movement as a result of their bunion may require surgery.
Give us a call
Capital Region Foot Care in Albany, NY, is a full-service foot and ankle practice, specializing in everything from treating bunions and heel pain to ankle fractures and ruptured tendons. Have additional questions about caring for your bunion? Then call us today at (518) 465-3515.