Bunions: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

A bunion is more than just a bump on the side of your foot—it’s a structural change in the joint at the base of your big toe (the first metatarsophalangeal joint). Over time, the big toe drifts toward the smaller toes, creating pressure, pain, and difficulty finding comfortable shoes.

At Laguna Woods Podiatry Group in Laguna Hills, Dr. Neda Arjomandi, a board-certified podiatrist, helps patients manage bunions with both conservative and surgical solutions, depending on their individual needs.

What Causes Bunions?

Bunions (hallux valgus) form gradually, often due to a combination of factors:

• Genetics: Inherited foot structure or instability is the most common cause.

• Footwear: Tight, narrow, or high-heeled shoes can worsen bunion development.

• Flat Feet or Low Arches: Lead to uneven pressure on the toe joint.

• Arthritis: Joint inflammation can accelerate bunion progression.

• Trauma: Previous foot injuries may increase risk.

Symptoms of Bunions

Common signs that a bunion is developing include:

• A visible bump on the side of the big toe joint

• Pain, tenderness, or swelling around the joint

• Redness or irritation where the shoe rubs

• Stiffness or limited movement of the big toe

• Difficulty finding shoes that fit comfortably

• Development of calluses, corns, or hammertoes as the toe position shifts

When to See a Podiatrist

Not all bunions require immediate surgery. However, you should schedule a podiatry appointment if you experience:

• Persistent foot pain affecting daily activities

• Inability to wear shoes without discomfort

• Big toe drifting significantly toward the smaller toes

• Difficulty walking due to joint stiffness

• Signs of arthritis in the big toe joint

Treatment Options for Bunions

Dr. Arjomandi provides a full range of treatment approaches, beginning with conservative methods:

Nonsurgical Treatments

• Proper Footwear: Shoes with a wide toe box reduce pressure on the bunion.

• Custom Orthotics: Correct abnormal foot mechanics and relieve stress on the joint.

• Padding & Taping: Protects the bunion and repositions the toe for temporary relief.

• Medications: Anti-inflammatory medicine to reduce pain and swelling.

• Physical Therapy & Exercises: Strengthening and stretching may improve joint function.

Surgical Options

If conservative methods are no longer effective and pain limits your lifestyle, surgery may be recommended. Bunion surgery (bunionectomy) involves realigning the joint, removing the bump, and restoring normal toe position.

Modern surgical techniques are more precise, often allowing quicker recovery and improved long-term results.

Living with Bunions

While bunions are progressive, early intervention can slow their development. Many patients live comfortably with bunions for years by using the right shoes, orthotics, and routine podiatry care. For others, surgery provides lasting relief and restores mobility.

Get Relief from Bunions in Orange County

If bunions are causing you pain or limiting your activity, help is available. At Laguna Woods Podiatry Group, Dr. Neda Arjomandi will evaluate your condition and create a personalized treatment plan that fits your needs—whether that’s conservative management or surgical correction.

📍 Call 949-581-2520 to schedule your bunion evaluation today.

We proudly serve patients from Laguna Hills, Laguna Woods, Mission Viejo, Lake Forest, Aliso Viejo, Irvine, Laguna Niguel, Laguna Beach, Rancho Santa Margarita, Foothill Ranch, Ladera Ranch, Dana Point, San Juan Capistrano, Newport Beach, Tustin, Costa Mesa, and Santa Ana.