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The response to the question below was authored by Marc Mitnick DPM

bunion

by Dora L
(Georgia)

my right foot

my right foot

I've had a bunion on my right foot (photo attached) that first became noticeable when I was in high school (ran track and cross country but noticed bunion in pointy shoes). A podiatrist diagnosed it when I was in college. At 36, I have pretty much given up on running, have discomfort walking (but do it anyway), and take much ibuprofen for hikes with my husband, which I am unwilling to give up. (On a recent 100-mile hike over the course of a week, I took 6-8 200-mg ibuprofen/day, which may have reduced the pain somewhat but certainly did not eliminate it.) I tried orthotics about 3 years ago and in spite of wearing them for over 2 years and having them adjusted several times (at the beginning), they never provided relief from bunion pain. Maybe I gave up on the adjustments prematurely but I just didn't find relief and was a bit disgusted that something relatively pricey seemed to have so little effect. I read your bunion section amd I think I have both pain in the "bump" area as well as joint pain-- I can't use elliptical machines, for instance, because the joint pain is pretty uncomfortable after just a few minutes. I do not wear pointy shoes, I am careful about shoes I wear, but experience some pain walking in most shoes.


I don't want surgery now because I hate the idea of my activity being limited during
a recovery; besides that, I just don't want to have to have surgery. A sports medicine doctor told me having bunion surgery would not necessarily achieve the desired outcome: a fixed foot that I can run on. My question is, is cortisone injection a reasonable option for a period of time, to eliminate pain and to allow increased activity level? I read that you don't recommend anti-inflammatories as long-term solutions. Makes sense. But is it foolish to consider cortisone treatment for a limited time (1-2 years)? Would it be foolish to attempt activities like running after receiving cortisone injections that reduced the bunion pain-- would such activities involving impact worsen the deformity?

Thanks for any advice you can provide.
Dora L

Hi Dora,
You are right, you cannot take ibuprofen indefinately, you are not doing yourself any service. You could try a cortisone injection; it might give you relief for a prolonged period of time but I do not think it will permanently render your bunion painless.
Even though you are not anxious to have surgery and of course there is never any guarantees regarding the outcome of surgery, I think the "risk-reward" favors you and it might be an option that is worth entertaining.
You are young and very active and it sounds like the bunion is putting a damper on your lifestyle.
Read my essay on "Surgical consideration" and it might just change your mind.
Good luck.
Marc Mitnick DPM

Comments for bunion

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Sep 26, 2012
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Bunions and Osteoporosis
by: Michelle (Colorado)

Like others have stated...This site is amazing and I am so thankful that it was created.
I am a 32 years old and found out last year that I have Osteoporosis. I was working a high impact job on my feet everyday, allday in steel toe shoes and experienced bi-lateral stress fractures in my second metatarsals. First my left foot then three months after returning to the same job I developed the same issue in my right foot. To say the least, I was aggravated. My doctor ordered a DEXA scan that confirmed that I had Osteoporosis. My family history, mother and grandfather both with Osteoporosis, coupled with having Crohns disease exaserbated my condition.
I have another, sitting, job right now which I love. I am experiencing pain in my feet and am in the processing of discussing my options with my podiatrist.
Again... I wanted to thank you for all the help and information I received from your sight. I was not suprised to find that no one else on this site had experienced the same circumstances that I had, so I thought that it might be helpful to add my comments to your sight. Since you, Dr. Mitnick, have not had any patients with Osteoporosis related foot stress fractures, I figured you might be able to use my comments in reference to future patients.
I will keep you posted on what my doctor recommends for my bunion surgery.
Keep up what your doing. Your a life saver.

Hi Michele,

Thanks for the kind words. I am sure your podiatrist will discuss this with you, but you will be limited in the types of procedure the doctor can perform due to your osteoporosis. (BTW, I have seen this problem in my office). If the osteoporosis is severe you will not be able to have an osteotomy (surgical breaking of bone) because of the concern about the fracture site healing. Secondly, most osteotomies shorten the first metatarsal to some extent, so it puts more pressure on the second metatarsal bone, thus increasing the possibility of additional stress fractures.
Make sure you ask your doctor all the right questions and thoroughly think this through before deciding on surgery.

Marc Mitnick DPM
Aug 29, 2009
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Similar Structure
by: Anonymous

I am 27 years old, and confirmed that I had a bunion earlier this week at the doctor's office. I have been experiencing pain for about three years. I too am very active; thank goodness my sport of choice is horseback riding, which does not cause me pain. Normal activities such as walking and working the clutch on my beloved Honda civic hatchback do cause pain in the joint, however, which is a difficult thing for me to accept. I too have been considering injections for the pain, as the bunion is in its very early stages with no deformity or pain yet on the exterior of my foot. It was bittersweet to happen upon this article, as I would not wish this condition on anyone. Still, it was comforting to know that I am not alone. I thought it was very interesting that your fourth toe has a slight deformity--both of those same toes on each of my feet have the exact same bend in them. That must be a sign of poor bone structure, which we obviously have. I hope you have or will figure out a way to reduce the pain so that you can enjoy hiking and running once more. As for me, I'm trading in my Honda (tearfully) for an automatic vehicle as soon as I can find something I like. I suppose I'm going to try to look on the bright side: at least I don't suffer from a debilitating or terminal illness. God bless those who deal each day with something much worse than toe pain.
Nov 07, 2008
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Thank you
by: Dora L

Thank you so much for this feedback. I will read over the essay on surgery considerations. I've skimmed it but will take another look. If I were to opt for something like cortisone as a short term approach, not as a long-term remedy, would you anticipate that high impact activities would increase the deformity? Thank you!

Hi Dora,
You know I tell my patients all the time that feet are like tires on a car; the more you use them, the quicker they wear out. So, yes, I would assume high impact activities will increase the deformity, BUT, it is important to live your life the way you want and if there is a solution to your problem (eg: surgery) you should give it the necessary thought.
Marc Mitnick DPM

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Penn State Medical Center

National Institutes of Health

Columbia University Department of Rehabilitation

ScienceDirect

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Illinois Bone and Joint Institute

Mount Sinai Hospital

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University of Florida Health

American Family Physician

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If you happen to live in the New York - New Jersey area and would like to visit our office

Dr. Marc Mitnick

151 Summit Ave.
Summit, NJ 07901
908-522-0761


To make an appointment online or for directions to our office click Dr. Marc Mitnick.

DISCLAIMER: The purpose of this site is purely informational in nature. It is not intended to diagnose, treat or cure any medical condition. This information is not a substitute for advice from a medical professional. Please consult your healthcare provider for accurate diagnosis and treatment. The information presented here may be subject to errors and omissions.


SITE LAST UPDATED: MAY 2026




MY PRODUCT RECOMMENDATIONS
(items I prescribe in the office)


Orthotics for multiple types of foot pain
best buy in a pre-made orthotic
click link below


SuperStepOrthotics

Orthotics for heel and arch pain for those who must wear dress shoes
click link below


redithotics

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Hunterville, NC
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NY
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A well organized site containing much information written in a manner that the average reader can comprehend.

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Ontario, Canada
I found your website and articles most interesting.

Andrew

Fla.
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Judy

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New York
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Memphis, TN
Thanks again so much for the information in the article. Very interesting.

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Scotland
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J. Simmons

(location unknown)
Dear Dr. Mitnick, The orthotics arrived four days ago and I slipped them into my shoes immediately. I was skeptical as to the usefulness of the item, they really didn't look very exotic. I have to say though, after using them for just four days, I have experienced grand relief from my foot pain. Even the very first day, I was able to do a lot of work while on my feet with at least a 75% reduction of pain. It has only gotten better every day, and I go nowhere without my shoes with the orthotics. I had been experiencing extreme heel and sole pain for about six months and had to take extended breaks off my feet many times a day as well as regular doses of Ibuprofen. Since getting the orthotics, my life has returned to normal and I feel good again. Just wanted to say thanks for the recommendation for a very effective item, I had no idea what a change this item could affect.

Yours truly,

J.C. Forbes

Tennessee
Thanks for the Response, you hit it on the head.

Steve

Redondo Beach, CA
Thank you for your time and expertise in answering my question…..

LH

(location unknown)
First, thanks for putting together this website. Its the most informative site I have found dealing with foot problems. Last June I started having pain and swelling at …….

Joe

(location unknown)
First of all, thank you for having all this useful information available in one place. I've been through most of your website and based on my research, pain and evaluations I think I've narrowed things down quite a bit.

Pete M.

(location unknown)
Thank you for the best site I have found when researching foot pain.

Glenda B.

Madison, Alabama
Thanks for replying so quickly. I was a bit concerned. I think your website is great, and chock full of info.....

Carol

Denison, TX
Dr. Marc, Thank you so much for your reply which seemed to be right on. I have researched many sites but you put me on the right path to the possible answer. My foot pain may not rule the rest of my life after all! I believe I'll make a sign that reads, "THE END IS NEAR!" Thanks Very Much,

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West lafayette, IN
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Tampa, Florida 33624
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Texas
Just a wee word of thanks for your wonderful website...It is a terrific service...Thank you for providing your knowledge and help...With highest regards, m ebeling

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Tampa, Florida 33624

Thanks for a most interesting website, which has helped a lot.

Steve

UK

Dear Dr.Mitnick

I usually do my research on the Mayo clinic website. I think your website is the most informative site I have found when researching foot pain.

I thank you for putting together this incredible website.

Regards,

Dragica W.

Edmonton,Canada

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South Africa

You have an unusually clear, informative and well-written website for laypersons. Thank you for that.

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Mansfield Ctr, CT

First, I'd like to thank you for all the information that you provide on your website and the opportunity to write to you.

Steve

Placentia, California

First, I want to let you know that you have the best web site I've found related to foot issues. (The only thing I had difficulty finding was the "ask a question" page.)

Unknown

Unknown location

I received the orthotics Monday afternoon and began wearing them Tuesday. After two days I would say that I have noticed a huge improvement in the discomfort I have been experiencing. My foot feels better than it has in months.

Ric J.

Unknown location

I greatly admire someone like you who would donate and dedicate so much time and effort to helping strangers with no compensation. Truly, it is uncommonly kind. And your site is so intelligently arranged.

Ron R.

Pacific Grove, CA

I used to work for a podiatrist (front desk) back during summers in college years ago, so I know the benefits of good care. Again, I want to thank you for an EXCELLENT website. It was so great to get to your site (top of google search) and actually find all the answers I needed EASILY and QUICKLY! Clearly you put a ton of work into it and I really appreciate it.

All the best,

Victoria

Alameda, California

By the way, millions of websites could use yours as a guideline on how to organize information and make the site user-friendly. Kudos to you!

Anonymous

Thank you for your very interesting and informative site!

Anonymous



Hi. I come to your site often looking for information. It is really informative and I appreciate it very much. I have RA and have been having considerable amount of foot pain...... Dee RN

Thanks very much for the wonderful informative site.

Catherine

New Zealand

Thank You for my answer! I have been schedule for a bone density scan, allingment, and I am in the process of getting orthotics made, and checking out the natural remedies. Thank again! What a great web site!

Sincerely

Josette

Yes I want both pair of orthotics. You don't have an option of ordering 2 at one time so I had to place the order twice. Thanks. My husband likes these and wants to put them in all of his shoes. (referring to Superstep orthotics)

Cindy H.

Arizona
I searched the internet everywhere for a clear description and illustration of my symptoms/problem. https://www.foot-pain-explained.com/ was where I ended my search with answers. If I lived in Jersey (left 30 years ago) and didn't live in Florida I would definetly make an appointment with Dr. Mitnick.

Thanks, Kathy

Florida
1st of all THANKS A LOT for your great site......

Anna

Poland
Thank you so much for your response. I will let you know how I am doing if you would like. Your website is awesome!

M P

South Carolina
Hello! I want to thank you for such an informative website! I found you based on my ankle pain search and am happy to realize that there may be a relatively simple cause and solution....

Natalie

unknown location


...Thanks for your fantastic service.

Gary

Arlington, VA


Thank you so very much, that would be much appreciated. I love those insoles, by the way. (referring to Superstep orthotics)

Kelly W.

San Clemente, CA


Dr Marc is fantastic...He seems to know exactly what you are feeling with the problems you are having. I wish he was in my home town so I could go to him with my problems!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Pam

location unknown


Great insights! Thanks Doc, you're the best.

Glen

location unknown


I have been experiencing foot pain of various sorts and am working to figure out what it is. I found this site and can only say BRAVO!! What an excellent site! The time it must have taken to put all this together must've been a daunting task! I am sure it has helped so many people. Thank you so very much for doing this.

Bre

location unknown


Dr. Mitnick, Thank you so much for your reply. I did let my physician know and they took an x-ray - all is well! Also, thank you for providing this wonderful site, it is very helpful with lots of useful information! I appreciate your gift of time! God bless.

anonymous



Dr. Mitnick, Thank you, you were 100% correct. The pain finally brought me to the ER. I spent 8 days in the hospital. The Doppler you spoke of was able to show that there was no pulse in that foot. This was an arterial clot that split and traveled throughout my leg. My leg was almost amputated. I am in rough shape but have all my parts intact!! You certainly know what you are talking about. Thank you for taking the time to answer. Yours Truly!

anonymous



Staying at home after hallux surgery I spend quite a lot of time seaching info useful for avoiding problems which might come back. Today I found your site and I am .... delighted it happened. It's one of the best site I found last days.

Anna

Poland



Thanks for taking time to read and answer so many questions. It is truly a public service!

Esh

Seattle, WA


I just wanted to say that I am very greatful for this website!!

Bonnie

location unknown



Also, and importantly, just want to praise this web site. Thorough and thoughtfully presented, it certainly must be of considerable assistance to anyone with a foot problem. Terrific -- and very interesting.I trust the address comes up easily for those seeking information.

Bill

New Jersey



Thanks so much for answering my question. You've been more help to me than my own Dr. has been lately. Thanks again....I hope to be able to walk without pain someday.

Debbie

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Wow, that is exactly the information needed!!! thank you thank you thank you!!! I appreciate this help so very much from Marc Mitnick DPM. Excellent information and help to improve One's life.

Chrissy

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Thanks so much for this website Dr. Marc! It is so nice that you have this ask the doctor feature..I'm sure I'ts been helpful for alot of people. I will try what you suggested and see if it helps...thanks again!

Tracy

Evansville, IA



Dear Marc

I just want to say thank you for the quick response and the good info. I find it amazing and a super nice thing that you do here by answering medical questions at no charge.

Russ W.

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Your website is full of a lot of helpful information, and I am very impressed with the time in which you responded to my post. Thank you again for your time and consideration in your response.

-Sunny.

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Thank you very much for the information, I will consider it. Excellent web site.

Jackie

San Diego, CA



Dr. Mitnick, Just want to say thank you so very much for your quick response and very informative reply! After reading what you had to say, I called the doctor's office and was able to get in and see him the same day as my injury. Toe was x-rayed and luckily, it is not broken or fractured. Very badly bruised and will probably lose the toe nail. And although my toe and toe nail are still very black and blue and very sore, they ARE both starting to feel a little better. So again, thank you! I am so very happy that I came across your website. The service you provide is outstanding and immeasurable!

Rivi,

Albany, NY



Thank you so much for all of your advice. In searching the web for people dealing with this same issue i can tell you that you are a Knight In shining Armor! If I lived in Jersey I would gladly be your Spokesperson. Hopefully next time you hear from me it will be good news. God Bless,

Jill S.

location unknown



THANK YOU SO VERY MUCH FOR YOUR TIME AND EFFORTS, YOU ARE SO VERY APPRECIATED. THANK YOU FOR ALL YOU DO.

Jackie

Whichita, KS



thanks again, this site is very helpful.

mark

Boston, MA



Like others have stated...This site is amazing and I am so thankful that it was created.

....Keep up what your doing. Your a life saver.

Michelle

Colorado



Thanks again for the information provided on your site. It's easy for non-medical folk to understand your writing, and helps provide better communication between patient and doctor.

annielou

Colorado

Wonderful advice

by: Anonymous

This is the best site for foot problem info.

Thank you for this information. This description fits my pain and inflammation behind my 2nd toe perfectly.

by: Max

location unknown
Again, I really appreciate that you responded to my inquiry, and that your mention of Parkinson's helped me to find my way to a diagnosis of this difficult to diagnose disease. Most patients see on average 16 doctors before they are diagnosed. I hope that you can help other people that ask for your expertise in the future.

Barb D.

Canada
I just wanted to say that I am very greatful for this website!! I have had a fusion in my rt foot and am finally getting a little bit better......

Bonnie

location unknown
Again, Thank you from the bottom of my heart for taking the time to answer my question....your an angel!

Nancie

Wisconsin
Thank you for your response. You have provided some great insight (to my question)....

Julie

location unknown
Thank-you so very much for responding so quickly and in such detail to my question!! I will give my surgeon a call today!! This website is terrific!!!! Thank-you again!

Renae

North Carolina
Many Thanks Dr Marc!
Thank you for your response. It sounds like a good plan to me. He did not cut the wart out first ...

KG

location unknown

Thanks again doc for having this website and we STILL need qualified Podiatrists in beautiful sunny Tampa Bay (Bradenton) Florida.

Bessie Mae

Florida
Dear Dr. Mitnick, Thank you so very much for taking your time to answer my question. You have greatly relieved my anxiety related to the continual tingly I feel in my feet. I will share your response with my podiatrist next week. God bless you for having this question and answer page on your website! Most gratefully,

Lynne T.

location unknown
Your webpage is excellent, I commend you on sharing your knowledge to the public.

Robert

New Jersey


Thank you. you were more detailed than what others have told me they finally called from the last xrays and my son is now in a cast for 2 weeks he did have a fracture that was not noticeable.

a mom

location unknown


I have read your website and I have to admit that I am amazed at all the information that is on here. I have learned more than the three years I have been going to several doctors that I have seen!!

Melody

Lenoir, NC


Thank you so much Doc for a quick and thorough response!

Rustam

Bellevue, WA


I cannot thank you enough for your response, opinion, and suggestions! I want you to know how much it means to me, and I'm sure everyone else who has ever asked you a question! I feel like you're a lifesaver and have empowered me to take a stronger role and stand up for myself and my feet!

Jodi

location unknown

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