Common Symptoms
- Visible bony bump on the inner side of the big toe joint
- Pain or soreness at the base of the big toe
- Swelling, redness, or inflammation around the joint
- Difficulty fitting into regular shoes comfortably
- Restricted or painful movement of the big toe
- Second toe crowding, overlap, or hammer toe formation
Common Causes
- Inherited foot structure or mechanics
- Prolonged wear of narrow, pointed, or high-heeled shoes
- Inflammatory joint conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis
- Flatfoot or excessive inward rolling (overpronation)
- Prior foot injury affecting joint alignment
How We Help
Fjerstad, DPM begins every visit with a complete evaluation before recommending treatment. The goal is conservative, targeted care that addresses the root cause — not just the symptom.
- Footwear modification and toe-box padding
- Custom orthotics to improve alignment and offload joint pressure
- Anti-inflammatory care for acute pain flares
- Splinting or spacer devices for positional support
- Surgical correction (bunionectomy) when conservative care is insufficient
- Post-surgical rehabilitation and return-to-activity guidance
When to Call
Call for an appointment if your pain is persistent, worsening, or interfering with daily activity — or if you have diabetes, numbness, swelling, infection, or an open sore on the foot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will my bunion get worse without treatment?
Bunions are progressive in most cases, though the rate varies widely. Early conservative care can slow progression and manage pain effectively, even without correcting the deformity itself.
When is surgery recommended?
Surgery is considered when pain significantly limits daily activity and several months of conservative treatment have not provided enough relief. Many patients manage for years — sometimes indefinitely — without needing an operation.
How long is recovery from bunion surgery?
Recovery depends on the procedure. Most patients are able to bear weight in a protective shoe shortly after surgery, with full return to regular footwear typically taking 6–10 weeks.