At Mitchell Foot & Ankle, we understand the discomfort and challenges bunions can create in your daily life. Whether you need help finding comfortable shoes, walking without pain, or improving your foot health, our team is ready to assist you. As experts in bunion surgery and non-surgical care in Chicago, we provide personalized treatments to ease your symptoms and help you move comfortably again.
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What Are Bunions?
A bunion, also called hallux valgus, is more than a bump on the side of your foot—it’s a structural issue caused by an unstable joint at the base of the big toe. This misalignment forces the big toe to lean toward the second toe, creating a bony protrusion on the side of the foot.
In a healthy foot, the metatarsal bone aligns properly with the others. An unstable joint can make the metatarsal bone shift out of place, causing a bunion to form. Over time, this condition can worsen, resulting in pain, swelling, and limited mobility.
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Symptoms of Bunions
Bunion deformities may start small, but they can grow and significantly affect your quality of life if left untreated. Common symptoms include:
- Pain and tenderness around the joint
- Swelling and inflammation
- Redness or irritation from friction with shoes
- Difficulty finding footwear that fits comfortably
- Limited movement of the big toe
- Visible deformity on the side of the foot
If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, seeking treatment early can help prevent the condition from worsening.
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Why Do Bunions Form?
Several factors can contribute to the development of bunions, including:
- Genetics: Family history of foot deformities can increase the likelihood of developing bunions.
- Improper Footwear: Wearing narrow or high-heeled shoes places excessive pressure on the toes and joints.
- Foot Structure Issues: Flat feet, overpronation, or other structural abnormalities can lead to bunion formation.
- Health Conditions: Conditions such as arthritis, including rheumatoid arthritis, can weaken joints and contribute to bunion development.
- Repetitive Strain: Activities like running or ballet that place consistent stress on the feet can worsen bunions.
Understanding these causes is key to both preventing and managing all types of bunions effectively.
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Comprehensive Bunion Treatments at Mitchell Foot & Ankle
At Mitchell Foot & Ankle, our foot and ankle surgeons provide a wide range of bunion treatments, from simple care options to advanced bunion surgery. We customize each treatment plan to meet your specific needs and goals.
Non-Surgical Treatments
We often start with non-invasive options to relieve pain, reduce swelling, and slow bunion progression. These include:
- Bunion Correctors: Bunion correctors work to realign the toes and relieve pressure on the affected joint.
- Custom Orthotics: Shoe inserts that redistribute pressure and provide support for better foot alignment.
- Proper Footwear: Shoes with a wide toe box can minimize friction and alleviate discomfort.
- Padding and Taping: Techniques to cushion the bunion and maintain proper toe alignment.
- Anti-Inflammatory Medications: Oral medications or steroid injections to reduce swelling and improve comfort.
Surgical Procedures
When non-surgical methods are not enough, we offer a few types of bunion surgeries to correct the deformity. Our bunion surgery options include:
- Minimally Invasive Surgery: For mild to moderate cases, minimally invasive techniques offer faster recovery and minimal scarring.
- Traditional Bunion Surgery: For severe cases, this approach provides permanent correction by realigning the bones and restoring proper function.
Our skilled team ensures you receive the best care throughout the surgical process, from initial consultation to recovery.
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Why Choose Mitchell Foot & Ankle for Bunions?
When it comes to bunion correctors and surgical solutions, Mitchell Foot & Ankle is a trusted provider for Chicago residents. Here’s why patients choose us:
- Expertise in Bunion Surgery: Our podiatrists are highly trained in advanced surgical and non-surgical techniques.
- Comprehensive Care: From evaluation to post-treatment support, we’re with you every step of the way.
- Tailored Solutions: We listen to your concerns and customize treatments to meet your unique needs.
- Patient Education: We empower you with knowledge about your condition and how to prevent future issues.
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Take the First Step Toward Pain-Free Feet
Do not allow bunions to hinder your enjoyment of life. Whether you’re looking into bunion correctors or thinking about bunion surgery, Mitchell Foot & Ankle is here to give you the care and support you need.
Contact us today to schedule an appointment and start your journey toward healthier, pain-free feet.