Bunions in Knoxville, TN, are a common condition. For many people, they may be slightly unsightly, but they don't cause any other issues. But if you are having pain, then something needs to be done. Getting in to see Dr. Timothy Gardner, DPM of Family Foot & Ankle Clinic, is a good option. He is a board-certified podiatrist who offers all the treatment you may need to get relief.

Bunion Causes

 Bunions in Knoxville, TN, often result from a defect in the foot's structure. Heredity plays a role since they do tend to run in families. A bunion is not something that develops overnight. They take time to get painful. If you have a family history of bunions, it is essential that you always have shoes that fit you correctly. Bunions can also be the result of an inflammatory illness like rheumatoid arthritis. Women are more likely to develop bunions than men. It is thought that high heels are part of the reason. Most high-heeled shoes compress the toe area, and the height of the heels adds additional pressure.

Bunion Symptoms

 The symptoms of a bunion are a disfiguring lump of bone located at the base of the big toe, where it joins the inside of the foot. The big toe moves over, and in some cases, it may overlap the toe next to it. Pain can be a significant component of some people's symptoms. The lump may become red and inflamed. This often led to pain. The second toe may also move over and overlap the third toe. This can lead to hammertoes. You may also notice that you develop calluses with the toes rubbing together. 

Treatment Options

 The only treatment that can remove a bunion is surgery, but that is always a last resort. If your bunion is not painful, wear shoes with a wider toe box to give your forefoot more room. This might help you avoid the bunion getting painful. If it is mildly painful, you can take OTC pain medication and try orthotics to help with the foot placement. If you are having difficulty walking, it is time to consider surgery, which will realign the bones in your foot. 

Surgery is done as an outpatient operation, but the recovery can take quite a long time, which is why it is usually a last resort.

Contact Dr. Timothy Gardner, DPM, at Family Foot & Ankle Clinic, when you need help with Bunions in Knoxville, TN. Call our office at (865) 218-7474 for an appointment today.