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Our feet undergo a lot of pressure through the years. It’s unsurprising, then, that they can run into issues, particularly over time. By the time we turn 65, we have a one in three chance of developing a specific toe problem, for example.
This toe issue — bunions — develops when the bones in the base of the big toe move out of position. This toe deformity usually progresses with time, becoming more noticeable and causing more discomfort as it does.
Fortunately, William T. DeCarbo, DPM, FACFAS, and our Greater Pittsburgh Foot & Ankle Center team treat bunions. If you visit our Wexford, Pennsylvania, office early enough, we can usually stop the bunion from getting worse while soothing any discomfort with options like orthotics. If you let it get too advanced, though, you’ll usually need involved treatment to correct the issue.
What orthotics can do
Orthotics can’t correct a bunion. At the point that you’re officially diagnosed with this condition, you have a deformity in your toe. The shoe inserts don’t reverse that deformity.
That’s not to say that orthotics can’t be powerful for people with this foot issue, though. As the American Podiatric Medical Association points out, because orthotics can help to control the way your foot functions, they can alleviate symptoms and prevent your bunion from getting worse.
In other words, orthotics can help you wear shoes more comfortably while slowing — or ideally stopping — the progression of your bunion.
That said, if you’re committed to correcting the bunion rather than just treating it, you’ll have to look beyond orthotics. Fortunately, Dr. DeCarbo and our team offer bunion correction.
How to correct bunions
To fix the deformity in your toe, you’ll need surgery.
Dr. DeCarbo offers a specialized type of bunion correction called Lapiplasty™. This minimally invasive procedure addresses the root cause of your bunion rather than solely focusing on removing the bump. Because it targets the misalignment and instability in your toe joint, it can help you get more lasting results than traditional bunion surgery.
Additionally, because it’s a minimally invasive procedure that places advanced fixation technology on the affected toe, it comes with a shorter recovery period. Most patients can put weight on the foot within a couple of weeks and are back in sneakers within six weeks.
Ultimately, the right treatment for your toe depends on how far your bunion has progressed. If it’s still in its early stages, you can probably effectively manage it with orthotics and other conservative treatments. But if it’s progressed to the point where it’s causing you significant pain, it’s probably time to consider Lapiplasty.
Our team can help you decide what’s best for your foot. To explore your options, call our office or book your appointment online today.