How a Podiatrist Can Help You Prevent Bunions

Your podiatrist in Decatur, GA, can help you and your feet feel better

Bunions hurt. If you have bunions, you know how they can make it difficult to wear shoes comfortably. Walking can even be a chore. Your podiatrist can help relieve bunion pain.

Dr. Jimmy Gregory offers a wide range of foot care services, including the prevention and treatment of bunions. He has two convenient office locations in Decatur, and Atlanta, GA, to help you and your feet feel better.

Bunions can be caused by a genetic bone deformity at your big toe joint. The deformity causes your big toe joint to point outward, so it rubs against the inside of your shoe. The continuous friction leads to inflammation, irritation, and bunion formation.

You can help prevent bunions by always wearing footwear with plenty of room for your toes. When your toes don’t bunch together, it helps prevent a bunion from forming. Avoiding high heels can help too.

For small bunions, you can try a few simple tips at home, including:

• Placing ice on your bunion several times each day
• Taping the bunion to provide added support
• Wearing shoe inserts to cushion the bunion
• Taking over-the-counter anti-inflammatory and pain medication

If you have a larger bunion, it’s best to seek out help from your podiatrist. Common professional treatments for bunions include:

• Callus and corn removal to eliminate friction
• Custom-made orthotics or footwear to support your feet
• Stretching and exercises to maintain flexibility
• Night splints to realign your foot and toes

Surgical therapy may be advised if there is significant bone involvement. This procedure, known as bunionectomy, realigns the bones in your foot and toes.

Bunions don’t have to keep you on the couch! To find out more about prevention and treatment of bunions and other footcare services, call Dr. Jimmy Gregory in Decatur, GA, at (404) 284-7744, or in his Atlanta, GA, office at (404) 755-2291. Call now!