Family Physician: A Friend to Depend On

Posted on: 29 September 2022

Bunions are pretty common. For some people, they never become very serious and are more of a cosmetic issue than anything else. For others, bunions do become a medical concern, in which case, you should see a podiatrist for treatment. So, when do you know your bunions have reached the point of warrantying podiatric care? Here are some key signs.

Your feet hurt at the end of the day.

Everyone gets sore feet now and then. If you spend multiple days in a row on your feet after not being used to this, then you may experience soreness. If you run a marathon, again, soreness is normal. But if you're starting to get sore feet after a normal work day or a normal walk around the block, then this is a sign you need to see a podiatrist. The pain often indicates that your bunions are causing you to stand on your feet abnormally, in a way that causes swelling and discomfort in other tissues. A podiatrist can take a look and recommend injections, orthotics, or even exercises to keep you more comfortable.

You're getting sores on your bunions.

Are you developing blisters, rubs, or other sores on your bunions? They may be rubbing on your shoes. This may seem like a mild problem, but it can quickly worsen. Circulation in the feet can become limited, especially when bunions reach a certain level, and that can keep sores from healing as they should. A podiatrist can make sure these wounds heal properly, and they can also give you ways to prevent new sores and wounds from developing. 

You can't find shoes that seem to fit.

Usually, when you have bunions, you need to buy shoes with a wider toe box to accommodate them. This is easier for some people than others, depending on foot shape and size. What if you can't find shoes that fit anymore? If they fit around your bunions, they are too loose in the heels. If they fit around your heels, they push on the bunions. This is something that a podiatrist can help you with. They can either have custom shoes made for you, or they can design orthotics that help other shoes fit.

Bunions can be a minor annoyance, or they can be a bigger medical problem. Talk to your podiatrist if you notice any of the issues above since early treatment is important.