Our Services / Bunion

What is a bunion?

A bunion is a swollen bump that forms on the outside edge of the joint at the base of your big toe. It occurs when the bones at the front of your foot change position due to abnormal foot mechanics or an unusual gait.

Bunions affect people of all ages, but they’re especially common in middle-aged women. If you have a bunion and it doesn’t improve with ice or rest, contact Dr. Sadoughi right away.

What are the symptoms of a bunion?

Symptoms of a bunion include:

• Difficulty bending your big toe
• Difficulty wearing regular shoes
• Corns or calluses
• Hammertoe

As the bunion grows, you might also experience numbness, tingling, or pain in your big toe.

When should I see a podiatrist about a bunion?

Make an appointment with Dr. Sadoughi at Chevy Chase Foot & Ankle if you have a bunion and it affects your ability to work or perform other activities. That’s especially true if you’re unable to move your big toe or you develop signs of infection, like a fever.

How is a bunion diagnosed?

At Chevy Chase Foot & Ankle, Dr. Sadoughi diagnoses bunions during an in-office visit. First, he reviews your medical records and asks about your symptoms, including when they started and if they respond to at-home treatments like ice and rest.

Next, Dr. Sadoughi carefully examines your foot. Bunions are visible to the eye, but he might also order X-rays to check for joint damage or to assess the alignment of your bones.

How is a bunion treated?

Treatment of a bunion depends on several factors, including your age, the size of the bunion, and the severity of your symptoms. Dr. Sadoughi usually recommends conservative treatments, like:

• Bunion pads
• Taping
• Wearing shoes with a large toe box
• Custom orthotics
• Anti-inflammatory medication
• Physical therapy
• Corticosteroid injections

If nonsurgical treatments don’t relieve your symptoms, or the pain prevents you from walking, Dr. Sadoughi might recommend surgery. During bunion surgery, he uses special tools to realign the bones at the front of your foot. This improves the position of your toe, encouraging mobility.

Don’t let a bunion keep you from activities that you enjoy. To receive treatment for a bunion, make an appointment at Chevy Chase Foot & Ankle by calling the nearest office or booking online today.