When your feet hurt, it can negatively affect your life. You may avoid certain activities because they are too painful. When the cause of the pain is bunions in Rancho Cucamonga, CA, you can count on Dr. Michael Kim of Grace Foot and Ankle Center to provide the treatment you need.

Causes of Bunions

Bunions are painful bony growths located at the big toe's joint, where it meets the inside of the foot. They are more common in women than men because women are more likely to wear shoes with high heels and a narrow-toe box. Almost three-quarters of people who develop bunions have a family member who also has bunions, which leads to the potential for a hereditary aspect of bunions.  An inflammatory condition such as rheumatoid arthritis may also cause bunions. 

Symptoms of Bunions

Bunions in Rancho Cucamonga, CA, are often inflamed and red from the pressure that shoes put on them. The pressure on the joint often causes the big toe to move to the outside of the foot toward the second toe. In some cases, the toe will overlap the toes next to it. This is called hallux valgus. The bump may be painful, though not always. A callus may appear on the bump, and wearing any type of shoes may be painful. The big toe may get stiff and have difficulty moving, which makes walking painful.

Treatment Options for Bunions

Treatment usually begins at home. Taking over-the-counter pain medication can help to take the edge off. Getting off your feet and applying ice to the bump will provide temporary relief. Choosing a shoe that is wide and doesn't put any pressure on the pump will help. You may want to buy OTC bunion pads to wear in your shoes. If none of the conservative methods work, then a visit to a podiatrist is called for. 

Your podiatrist can have custom orthotics made up for you that will help take the pressure off of the bunion. If you have changed shoes, tried other things, and still have difficulty walking, it may be time to consider bunion surgery. Bunion surgery is outpatient, but the recovery time can be long. It depends on the complexity of the surgery. Your X-rays and an examination will determine the type of surgery needed. 

Contact Dr. Kim at Grace Foot and Ankle Center when you have bunions in Rancho Cucamonga, CA. Call the office at (909) 858-2772 to make an appointment.