Bunion Treatment & Surgery in Gurnee, IL
University Foot Associates provides personalized bunion treatment and surgery at our Gurnee podiatry office for patients experiencing pain, swelling, difficulty wearing shoes, or changes in the alignment of the big toe.
Our podiatrists will evaluate your symptoms, foot structure, activity level, and treatment goals to determine the most appropriate course of care. Nonsurgical options may help relieve pressure and discomfort, while surgery may be considered when bunion pain continues to interfere with walking, work, exercise, or everyday activities. Schedule an evaluation to learn which treatment options may be right for you.
What are Bunions?
A bunion, also known as hallux valgus, develops when the bones at the base of the big toe move out of alignment. As the big toe gradually leans toward the second toe, the joint may become more prominent and form a visible bump along the inside of the foot. Some bunions cause few symptoms, while others lead to pain, swelling, stiffness, skin irritation, or difficulty wearing shoes and walking comfortably.
Bunions often develop gradually and may be influenced by inherited foot structure, joint mechanics, arthritis, or a previous foot injury. Narrow or poorly fitting shoes do not necessarily cause bunions, but they can increase pressure on the joint and aggravate symptoms.
Because every bunion progresses differently, treatment should be based on your symptoms, joint alignment, activity level, and treatment goals. Nonsurgical care may help relieve pressure and discomfort, while surgery may be considered when persistent bunion pain limits everyday activities and conservative treatment has not provided enough relief.
Common Signs and Symptoms of a Bunion
A bunion is more than a bump on the side of the foot. It develops as the bones at the base of the big toe move out of alignment, causing the big toe to lean toward the second toe. Some bunions cause few problems, while others become painful and interfere with shoes, walking, or everyday activities.
Common signs and symptoms include:
A visible bump at the base of the big toe
The big toe leaning toward or pressing against the second toe
Pain or soreness around the big-toe joint
Redness, swelling, or inflammation near the bump
Corns or calluses where the toes rub together
Difficulty finding comfortable shoes
Limited or painful movement of the big toe
Burning, tingling, or numbness around the affected area
Pain that worsens after prolonged standing or walking
Bunions often progress gradually, although the rate of change differs from person to person. If your symptoms persist, your toe alignment is changing, or bunion pain is limiting your normal activities, a podiatric evaluation can help determine the severity of the condition and the most appropriate treatment.
Treatment for Bunions
Nonsurgical treatment cannot permanently correct the underlying joint alignment, but it may reduce pressure, irritation, and pain. Recommendations may include one or more conservative treatments based on your symptoms, foot structure, footwear, and activity level. Treatments may include;
- Wearing comfortable and well-fitting footwear that does not cause pressure to the areas.
- Using splints and orthotics to reposition the big toe
- Providing protective padding
- Exercising therapy to maintain joint mobility
- Icing
- Clinician-approved pain management
- Treatment of associated corns or calluses
Bunion Surgery
If these treatments don’t help, then our podiatrists may suggest surgery. Surgery is generally considered when pain limits daily activities and appropriate nonsurgical care has not helped enough. X-Rays of the bone and foot help to diagnose and provide more information. The type of procedure depends on the severity, general health, activity level, age, and condition of the bone and other connective tissues.
Why Choose University Foot Associates?
When it comes to treating chronic foot and ankle pain, experience and specialization matter. At University Foot Associates, our team focuses exclusively on foot and ankle conditions—giving you a level of expertise and precision that general clinics simply can’t match.
Specialized Foot & Ankle Expertise
Unlike general physical therapy or chiropractic offices, our providers are trained specifically in diagnosing and treating foot-related conditions. This allows us to accurately identify the root cause of your pain.
Trusted Board-Certified Podiatrists
Our board-certified podiatrists Dr. Nasser and Dr. Tikiwala specialize exclusively in foot and ankle care. They are board-certified by both the American Board of Podiatric Medicine as well as the American Board of Foot and Ankle Surgery.
If you are experiencing chronic foot or heel pain, contact University Foot Associates to learn more. Get in touch with our team to schedule an appointment today. Located in Gurnee, Illinois University Foot Associates serves the greater North Chicago area including Grayslake, Lake Forest, and Lake County
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q: How do you get rid of bunions on your feet?
A: Once a bunion or bump at the big toe joint start, you are unable to get rid of it without surgical intervention. Wearing wide shoes, protecting the bunion with gel pads, and orthotics can relieve discomfort associated with bunions.
Q: Can Bunions go away naturally?
A: A podiatrist can provide many ways to reduce inflammation and discomfort from bunions but they will not go away on their own.
Q: What is the main cause of bunions?
A: Bunions are caused by a variety of factors. Foot structure and mechanics can create a predisposition, while narrow or poorly fitting shoes may aggravate symptoms or progression.