New York: Roslyn - 516-484-1420
Huntington - 631-427-3678
Bunions
I have had a painful bunion for about 5 years. I went to see Pedram Hendizadeh who initially helped me address the pain with solutions other than surgery. He explained all the options to me and did not push surgery on me. The office staff put me in touch with a number of other patients who have had a bunionectomy, so that I was talk to them about their experience with the surgery and recovery. I finally decided to have the surgery and have been very pleased with the whole experience. The procedure and pain was not nearly as bad as I expected or as other people have described to me and I have had a good recovery. I highly recommend Dr Hendizadeh and Associated Podiatrists to anyone who is suffering with a bunion and contemplating surgery. M. Novello - April 2011
What is a Bunion?
A bunion is a bone deformity caused by an enlargement of the joint at the base and side of the big toe (metatarsophalangeal joint). Bunions form when the toe moves out of place. The enlargement and its protuberance cause friction and pressure as they rub against footwear. Over time, the movement of the big toe angles in toward the other toes, sometimes overlapping a third toe (known as Hallux Varus). The growing enlargement or protuberance then causes more irritation or inflammation. In some cases, the big toe moves toward the second toe and rotates or twists, which is known as Hallus Abducto Varus. Bunions can also lead to other toe deformities, such as hammertoe.
Many people with bunions suffer from discomfort and pain from the constant irritation, rubbing, and friction of the enlargement against shoes. The skin over the toe becomes red and tender. Because this joint flexes with every step, the bigger the bunion gets, the more it hurts to walk. Over time, bursitis or arthritis may set in, the skin on the bottom of the foot may become thicker, and everyday walking may become difficult—all contributing to chronic pain.
What Causes Bunions?
Wearing shoes that are too tight is the leading cause of bunions. Bunions are not hereditary, but they do tend to run in families, usually because of a faulty foot structure. Foot injuries, neuromuscular problems, flat feet, and pronated feet can contribute to their formation. It is estimated that bunions occur in 33 percent of the population in Western countries.
Treatment for Bunions
Because they are bone deformities, bunions do not resolve by themselves. The goal for bunion treatment is twofold: first, to relieve the pressure and pain cause by irritations, and second to stop any progressive growth of the enlargement. Commonly used methods for reducing pressure and pain caused by bunions include:
- The use of protective padding, often made from felt material, to eliminate the friction against shoes and help alleviate inflammation and skin problems.
- Removal of corns and calluses on the foot.
- Changing to carefully fitted footwear designed to accommodate the bunion and not contribute toward its growth.
- Orthotic devices—both over-the-counter and custom made—to help stabilize the joint and place the foot in the correct position for walking and standing.
- Exercises to maintain joint mobility and prevent stiffness or arthritis.
- Splints for nighttime wear to help the toes and joint align properly. This is often recommended for adolescents with bunions, because their bone development may still be adaptable.
Surgical Treatment
Depending on the size of the enlargement, misalignment of the toe, and pain experienced, conservative treatments may not be adequate to prevent progressive damage from bunions. In these cases, bunion surgery, known as a bunionectomy, may be advised to remove the bunion and realign the toe.
| Patient with Painful Bunion | After Bunionectomy |
 |
 |
Click here to see before and after x-rays of a bunion
Click here to see a surgical slideshow of bunion removals
Click here to see a surgical slideshow of a bunionectomy
Bunion: Before and After Photos
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
Dr. Abraham Yale, founding partner of our practice, was named a 2011 TOP DOC by CONNECTICUT MAGAZINE in the April, 2011 Edition.
Our Doctors featured in Image Magazine
The Fight Against Toenail Fungus
The Root of Common Foot Problems
Botox for the feet: A treatment for sweaty odorous feet