Expert Foot & Ankle Treatment from Michigan’s #1 Podiatrist - Balance Foot & Ankle Specialist
Don’t Let Painful Bunion Slow You Down
What to Do About a Painful Bunion
Understanding Causes, Symptoms & Relief
A painful bunion isn’t just a cosmetic issue — it’s a real medical condition that can interfere with your ability to walk, exercise, or even wear your favorite shoes. Bunions occur when the joint at the base of the big toe shifts out of alignment, often resulting in swelling, redness, and sharp or throbbing pain. At Balance Foot & Ankle Specialists in Howell, Michigan, Dr. Tom Biernacki and his team specialize in diagnosing and treating bunions with a range of non-invasive and surgical solutions tailored to your lifestyle and mobility goals.
Stop Ignoring That Toe Pain! What Your Big Toe Joint Is Telling You
Bunions typically form due to genetics, structural imbalances, or prolonged use of tight, narrow shoes. Over time, pressure on the joint causes it to protrude and shift the toe inward — leading to pain, inflammation, and difficulty walking. The good news? Many painful bunions can be managed without surgery. Supportive footwear, custom orthotics, toe spacers, and anti-inflammatory treatments are often enough to reduce discomfort and slow progression. For severe cases, minimally invasive bunion surgery or bunionectomy may be recommended. The key is addressing the problem early to avoid permanent joint damage.
Common Symptoms of a Painful Bunion:
Visible bump on the side of the big toe
Redness, swelling, or tenderness near the joint
Pain while walking, especially in tight shoes
Stiffness in the big toe
Calluses between the first and second toes
Inward turning of the big toe
Worsening pain over time
Reduced range of motion in the toe
What to Do About a Painful Bunion:
Wear wide, supportive shoes with a roomy toe box
Use bunion pads or toe spacers for alignment
Apply ice to reduce swelling after activity
Take anti-inflammatory medications as needed (under a doctor’s supervision)
Try custom orthotics for long-term joint support
Avoid high heels and pointed shoes
Schedule a podiatric evaluation for proper imaging and diagnosis
Consider surgical options only if conservative care fails
Stop Letting Bunion Pain Slow You Down
Get expert care today and take the first step toward pain-free movement.
Don’t wait for your bunion to get worse. Whether you’re experiencing mild discomfort or severe pain, we offer proven, personalized treatments to help you walk comfortably again. Schedule your consultation with Dr. Carl Jay and explore both non-surgical and surgical options tailored to your lifestyle.
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5 Powerful Reasons to Use Metatarsal Support
1. Alleviates Ball-of-Foot Pain (Metatarsalgia)
Metatarsal pads or orthotic supports help redistribute pressure across the foot, reducing the strain on the metatarsal heads. This is especially helpful for those suffering from metatarsalgia, a condition characterized by pain and inflammation in the ball of the foot.
2. Prevents Common Foot Disorders
Consistent use of metatarsal support can help prevent conditions like Morton’s neuroma, calluses, and stress fractures by maintaining proper foot alignment and shock absorption during walking or high-impact activities.
3. Enhances Arch and Gait Support
Contributes to better foot mechanics, improving your overall gait. This can benefit your posture, relieve lower back pain, and reduce fatigue during long periods of standing or walking.
4. Boosts Comfort in Daily Footwear
From dress shoes to sneakers, metatarsal pads can be added discreetly to enhance comfort—making your favorite shoes more foot-friendly without compromising style.
5. Aids in Recovery and Rehabilitation
If you’re recovering from a foot injury or surgery, it can play a vital role in your healing process. By offloading pressure and stabilizing the forefoot, it promotes quicker recovery and prevents further complications.
Find Your Nearest Podiatry Clinic in Michigan
DISCLAIMER:
Dr. Tomasz Biernacki received his Doctor of Podiatric Medicine degree from Kent State College of Podiatric Medicine in 2013; he completed his Surgical Reconstructive Foot Surgery & Podiatric Medicine Residency in 2017; he completed 2x traveling Fellowships in Diabetic Surgery, Skin Grafting & Nerve Surgery. He is double board certified in Podiatric Medicine and Foot & Ankle Surgery.
Dr. Biernacki is a licensed podiatrist & surgeon in Michigan. This video should not be used to self-diagnose and is not a substitute for a medical exam, cure, treatment, diagnosis, prescription, or recommendation. It does not create a doctor-patient relationship between Dr. Biernacki and you. It would be best to not change your health regimen or diet before consulting a physician and obtaining a medical exam & diagnosis.
Always seek the advice of a physician or other qualified health provider with any questions regarding a medical condition.
Frequently Asked Questions About Painful Bunions
Common symptoms include a visible bump on the side of the big toe, joint swelling, redness, pain when walking, stiffness in the toe, and the big toe leaning inward toward the second toe.
Bunions become painful due to joint inflammation, pressure from tight footwear, arthritis, or prolonged standing or walking that irritates the misaligned joint.
You should see a podiatrist if the bunion causes persistent pain, interferes with daily activities, or shows signs of worsening like increased swelling, redness, or limited mobility.
Top remedies include switching to wide-toe box shoes, using bunion pads or toe spacers, wearing custom orthotics, applying ice, and taking anti-inflammatory medications under medical supervision.
Yes, many mild to moderate bunions can be managed with conservative treatments. Early intervention can delay or eliminate the need for surgery.
You may need surgery if pain persists despite conservative treatment, if the bunion interferes with mobility, or if the joint is severely deformed or arthritic.
Bunion surgery usually involves realigning the bones of the big toe joint, removing the bony bump, and securing the toe with screws or pins. Minimally invasive options may also be available.
Recovery typically takes 6 to 8 weeks for most patients. You may need to wear a surgical boot and gradually return to regular footwear and activity based on your doctor’s guidance.
