Bunions

Relieve bunion pain. Restore your stride.
Bunions can make walking painful and shoes uncomfortable — but you don’t have to live with the discomfort. At Big Sky Foot and Ankle Institute, we offer personalized, effective treatments to reduce pain, correct the deformity, and get you moving again with confidence.

What Is a Bunion?

A bunion is a bony bump that forms at the base of the big toe, where it meets the foot. This occurs when the bones in the front of the foot shift out of alignment, causing the big toe to angle inward toward the second toe.

Common symptoms include:

• A visible bump on the side of the foot

• Pain or soreness at the joint

• Redness, swelling, or inflammation

• Stiffness or limited movement in the big toe

• Difficulty wearing shoes comfortably

Without treatment, bunions often worsen over time and may lead to other issues like hammertoes, calluses, or joint damage.

What Causes Bunions?

Bunions are typically caused by a combination of factors, including:

• Genetics – Bunions often run in families

• Foot structure – Flat feet or abnormal biomechanics

• Poor footwear – Tight, narrow, or high-heeled shoes

• Arthritis – Especially inflammatory types like rheumatoid arthritis

• Injury or repetitive stress

How We Diagnose and Treat Bunions

Our podiatrists will examine your foot, review your symptoms, and take X-rays if needed to determine the severity of the bunion and the best treatment approach.

Nonsurgical treatment options may include:

• Custom orthotics or shoe inserts

• Padding or taping to relieve pressure

• Anti-inflammatory medications

• Ice therapy

• Switching to wider, supportive footwear

These methods can help reduce pain and slow progression, especially in the early stages.

Bunion Surgery (Bunionectomy)

If your bunion causes chronic pain, interferes with daily activity, or doesn’t respond to conservative care, surgical correction may be recommended. Our surgeons offer modern bunion correction procedures tailored to your specific foot structure and lifestyle needs.

Surgery can:

• Realign the joint

• Remove the bony bump

• Relieve pressure and restore function

Recovery time varies depending on the procedure but typically involves rest, temporary immobilization, and gradual return to activity.

Don’t Let Bunions Hold You Back

If you're experiencing bunion pain or notice changes in your foot shape, early treatment can prevent long-term issues. Our team at Big Sky Foot and Ankle Institute is here to help every step of the way.