3D Lapiplasty Bunion Correction

Sarasota Foot Care Center

Podiatrists & Foot and Ankle Surgeons located in Sarasota, FL

Bunions are a common, yet misunderstood foot deformity. Many people unnecessarily suffer the pain of bunions for years before seeking treatment. Committed to helping patients get the relief they need, the podiatry team at Sarasota Foot Care Center, with two office locations in Sarasota, Florida, specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of bunions. They offer the entire spectrum of treatment options, from conservative medical care to cutting-edge surgical procedures. For relief from your bunions, call the office in Sarasota North or Gulf Gate Sarasota, or book an appointment online today.

Bunions Q & A

What are bunions?

Bunions, or hallux valgus, are a foot deformity that affects the bony framework in the front part of your foot.

With bunions, the big toe leans toward the second toe, rather than straight ahead, which creates a misalignment of the bones and produces the bunion bump at the base of your big toe joint.

Certain inherited foot types make a person more prone to developing bunions. Though wearing shoes that crowd the toes won’t cause bunions, they may worsen the deformity.

A bunionette is a foot deformity that affects the base of the little toe. Like bunions, a bunionette develops from a misalignment of the bones that creates a bump at the joint.

What are the symptoms of bunions?

Bunions are a progressive condition, and symptoms may not develop until the later stages of the deformity. Symptoms most often occur when wearing shoes that crowd the toes or when spending long periods of time on your feet.

The symptoms usually occur at the site of the bunion (bump) and may include:

Pain and soreness
Inflammation and redness
A burning sensation
Numbness

You may also develop calluses on your big toe, sores between the toes, ingrown toenails, or restricted motion in the toe.

When should I seek medical care for bunions?

You should seek medical care for bunions as soon as you notice the deformity. Though not all bunions require serious intervention, an early evaluation and treatment plan may prevent pain.

When you visit Sarasota Foot Care Center for a bunion evaluation, your podiatrist performs an in-depth evaluation that assesses your whole health, not just your feet. They review your symptoms, medical and family history, and perform a physical.

Your podiatrist also takes digital X-rays of your foot to determine the degree of the deformity.

How are bunions treated?

Sarasota Foot Care Center offers the entire spectrum of treatment for bunions, from conservative padding and shoe gear changes to the most cutting-edge surgical procedures.

Your podiatrist develops an individualized treatment plan based on the severity of your deformity and the rate of progression. Bunion treatment may include:

Footwear recommendations
Padding
Activity modification
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
Shockwave therapy
Icing
Injection therapy (corticosteroids)
Orthotic devices

To create your custom orthotics that provide the best support and pain relief, your podiatrist may conduct a gait analysis, which assesses foot mechanics and body alignment while you walk.

When the pain of your bunion interferes with your daily activities, your podiatrist may recommend surgery. They use cutting-edge surgical procedures to remove the “bump,” correct the misalignment, and repair soft tissue changes.