At Deaconess Illinois Medical Center, we know how much bunions can hurt. Even putting on shoes can become difficult, let alone walking comfortably or doing the things you love.

We specialize in bunion surgery (bunionectomy), an outpatient procedure to relieve pain and help correct the condition, so you can get back on your feet.

About Bunions

A bunion is a lump that usually forms at the base of your big toe. It gets progressively larger, sometimes so much that it forces the big toe inward and on top of the next toe. The skin over the bunion may become swollen and sore, while the protrusion can cause intense pain and restrict movement in your toes.

Most bunions form in women, primarily because women may be more likely to wear tight or pointed shoes that cramp the toes. Bunions are also thought to be hereditary and more common as you age. They are often associated with arthritis, and can lead to other foot conditions, including hammertoe and bursitis.

Without the right treatment, bunions can eventually cause debilitating pain and severely damage the toe joint.

Relief Starts Here

Your podiatrist at Deaconess Illinois Medical Center will assess your pain and work closely with you to find the right treatment.

We often start with non-invasive options, such as changing shoes, custom orthotic inserts, anti-inflammatory medication or cortisone injections. But, if those treatments aren’t effective, bunion surgery may be your best solution for relief and to help correct the misshapen foot.

Depending on the severity of your bunion, surgery may involve:

• Removing the swollen tissue from around your big toe joint
• Straightening your big toe by removing part of the bone
• Realigning the long bone between the back part of your foot and your big toe, to straighten out the abnormal angle in your big toe joint
• Joining (fusing) the bones of your affected joint permanently
• Replacing all or part of the joint with an artificial one

Recovery & Follow-Up Care

We usually perform bunionectomy on an outpatient basis, allowing you to go home the same day. You may be fitted with a special boot to help stabilize the foot.

Your podiatrist and dedicated care team will closely monitor your recovery. Every situation is different, but most patients resume normal activities within six to eight weeks, with some swelling to be expected in the months after. We may recommend physical therapy to improve foot strength and range of motion. Since bunions can sometimes return, we’ll also provide the education and support you need to help reduce your risk.