Bunion
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Volusia County Podiatry
DeAndrea Duffus, DPM
Podiatry located in Debary, FL
Nearly one-quarter of people aged 18-65 have bunions. If you have a bony protrusion on the side of your big toe, it’s important to see bunion specialist DeAndrea Duffus, DPM, at Volusia County Podiatry, in Debary, Florida, as soon as possible. Dr. Duffus can diagnose and treat your bunion in the office, providing fast relief and improved foot function. Book an appointment online or by phone today.
Bunion Q & A
What is a bunion?
A bunion is a deformity within the metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint at the bottom of your big toe; mechanical imbalance and stress on this joint cause it to drift out of position. As this happens, a bony prominence (bump of bone) develops on the joint.
In addition to the bony prominence, your big toe leans towards your second toe. The big toe may rest atop or underneath the second toe as the bunion worsens.
Inherited foot type causes most bunions. However, certain shoes, like high heels or pointed-toe shoes, can worsen an existing bunion or speed up bunion development.
Because bunions alter your foot alignment, they can also contribute to other problems, such as hammertoe.
What symptoms do bunions cause?
Bunions can cause issues such as:
- Discomfort
- Joint stiffness
- Skin swelling
- Red skin
- Abnormal gait
A bunion can also cause problems with your shoes. You might not be able to wear snug-fitting shoes comfortably anymore, or you may develop a callus over the bunion due to constant shoe friction.
When should I see the doctor about a bunion?
If your bunion causes discomfort or issues, it requires treatment. Bunions are a progressive deformity — one that steadily worsens without treatment. Usually, it's easier to treat a mild bunion than a severe one, so it's best to see Dr. Duffus as soon as signs of bunions appear.
How is a bunion diagnosed?
Dr. Duffus can diagnose your bunion with a foot exam and medical history review. She may also take an X-ray to determine the severity of your bunion or to diagnose co-occurring issues.
How does bunion treatment work?
If you have a very mild bunion that's not causing any symptoms, Dr. Duffus may recommend simple methods of preventing progression. Common strategies include custom orthotics, changing your shoes, and cushioning pads.
For more prominent bunions, particularly those that cause symptoms, Dr. Duffus may recommend bunion surgery. There are more than 100 different types of bunion surgery, and every bunion may require a different approach.
Dr. Duffus is an experienced foot and ankle surgeon who can design a surgical plan to suit your bunion. She performs surgical repairs that correct your foot alignment, which prevents bunion recurrence.
If you have a bunion, call Volusia County Podiatry or book an appointment online today.
