Bunion Q & A

How do bunions develop?

Bunions are a change in the normal shape and structure of your first metatarsal and toe joint right at the base. These foot deformities develop when your big toe, which is supposed to lie flat and straight, gets pushed over towards your smaller second toe. If this happens every day, especially if you wear pointy, high-heeled shoes all day at work, eventually, your big toe starts to stay in that abnormal position, and that bony bump begins to get bigger. Juvenile bunions are a particular problem because they require aggressive treatment and Dr. Bregman has specialized training in pediatric surgery and can address your child’s issues. 

​Wearing ill-fitting shoes, especially among women, is believed to be a common aggravation of bunion formation. But they aren’t the only issue. Your chances of developing bunions can also stem from:

  • Flat feet

  • Family history

  • Arthritic conditions

  • Trauma or injury 

It’s even possible to have the same type of issue in your baby toe. This type bony bump at the base of your littlest toe — known as a bunionette or tailor’s bunion — stems from the same causes.

What are the symptoms of bunions?

Bunions are progressive, and if you don’t have them medically treated early on, they’re going to continue to get worse. Depending on the severity of your bunions, you can experience any of the following signs and symptoms:

  • ​Swollen toe joint
  • Toe stiffness and tenderness

  • Limited movement in your toe

  • Inflammation and redness over the toe joint

​Because bunions rub up against the insides of your shoes, you can also develop calluses and corns that can cause even more discomfort. In any case, you can get the comprehensive bunion care you need at Bregman Foot-Ankle & Nerve Center.

Do I need surgery for a bunion?

Sometimes, although the podiatry team at Bregman Foot-Ankle & Nerve Center typically puts together a conservative treatment plan first to try and relieve your symptoms and minimize bunion discomfort. Before considering surgery, your podiatrist may have you try: 

  • Custom orthotics

  • Physical therapy

  • Specialized padding

  • Corticosteroid injections

  • Strapping, splinting, or taping

If you have a significant bunion or if trying these nonsurgical methods for several months doesn’t provide relief, you might need bunion surgery. The top-rated podiatry team at Bregman Foot-Ankle & Nerve Center performs minimal incision surgery using the most modern surgical techniques. They can realign your toe joint and remove damaged tissues using minimally invasive measure.

Dr. Bregman also has recently trained in the Lapiplasty® procedure, which allows for rapid recovery even with severe bunions. Dr. Bregman has performed over 1,000 bunion surgeries with a very high success rate and most patients have little to no pain after surgery. Dr. Bregman can show you video of many of the success stories of his patients with the Lapiplasty procedure.”

Schedule your bunion evaluation at Bregman Foot-Ankle & Nerve Center today. You can request your appointment either online or over the phone.

Click here to learn about bunion surgery!

Meet Dr. Peter J. Bregman

World Renowned & Award Winning Podiatrist


7150 W Sunset Rd #110, Las Vegas, NV 89113

reception@bregmanfance.com

+1 702-703-2526

+1 800-638-8056