At Mitchell Foot & Ankle, we understand the discomfort and limitations that bunions can cause in your daily life. Whether you’re struggling to find comfortable shoes or experiencing pain while walking, our team can provide support. As experienced bunion specialists in Chicago, we offer comprehensive care to help alleviate your symptoms and improve your foot health.

• Understanding Bunions: More Than Just a Bump

  What is a bunion? A bunion, medically known as hallux valgus, is more than just a visible bump on the side of your foot. It’s a structural problem that occurs as a result of an unstable joint at the base of the big toe.

• The big toe joint connects the head of the first foot bone (metatarsal) with the base of the first toe bone. There are five metatarsal bones, all located between the bones that form the heel and ankle, and the toes.

  In a healthy foot, the joint keeps the metatarsal bone in line with the others. However, if the joint is unstable, the bone shifts out of place. The big toe starts to lean towards the second toe, resulting in misalignment and the formation of a bony bump.

• Symptoms

  Despite how small bunions start off, if left untreated, they can grow and significantly impact your quality of life. Bunions can cause pain, inflammation, and swelling, affecting your mobility. They can also make it hard to find comfortable footwear.

• Why Bunions Form

  Bunions can form for many different reasons. Genetics, wearing tight shoes, and certain health conditions are just a few causes. Doing activities that strain the feet can also worsen bunions, such as running or ballet.

  Understanding the root causes is crucial in effectively preventing and treating bunions.

• Comprehensive Bunion Treatments at Mitchell Foot & Ankle

  At Mitchell Foot & Ankle, our approach to bunion treatment includes both conservative measures and surgical options. We tailor treatment plans to every patient’s unique situation.

  We usually start with the least invasive treatment methods to help alleviate pain and halt progression of the bunion.

• Maintenance Treatments:

  • Proper Footwear: Avoiding tight or narrow shoes is essential to managing the condition. Also, wearing well-fitting shoes with a wide toe box can help relieve bunion pain.
  • Shoe Inserts and Custom Orthotics: These devices can help redistribute pressure and provide the necessary support to relieve discomfort.
  • Padding and Taping: Offering immediate pain relief, these methods can also keep the foot in a more natural position.
  • Medication and Injections: Anti-inflammatory medications or steroid injections can reduce swelling and pain, making daily activities more manageable.

• When Surgery Becomes Necessary

  For those who continue to experience significant pain or have difficulty walking even after trying non-surgical treatments, surgery might be the best option. Mitchell Foot & Ankle is proud to offer traditional bunion surgery to patients with severe cases. The aim of surgery is to permanently correct the deformity, relieve pain, and improve foot function.

  For patients with minor cases, minimally invasive bunion surgery from our Chicago team may be a preferred option.

• Why Choose Mitchell Foot & Ankle

  • Superior Care: Our podiatrists in Hyde Park are specially trained in foot and ankle care and dedicated to providing the highest quality services.
  • Comprehensive Services: From initial consultation to post-surgery recovery, we offer trusted treatment for bunion deformities and other foot conditions.
  • Patient-Centric Approach: We understand the impact bunions can have on your life. That’s why we listen to your concerns and tailor treatments to meet your individual needs.

• One of the Best Bunion Surgeons in Chicago

  Don’t let bunions hold you back from enjoying life to the fullest. Whether you’re seeking maintenance treatments to manage discomfort or considering bunion surgery in Chicago, Mitchell Foot & Ankle is here to support you.

  Contact us today to schedule your appointment and take the first step towards healthier, happier feet.