Understanding Bunions: When Foot Pain Becomes More Than Just a Bump
If you’ve ever noticed a bony bump forming at the base of your big toe, you may be dealing with a bunion — a common foot condition that affects millions of Americans. While often dismissed as a cosmetic issue, bunions can significantly impact foot function, balance, and mobility, especially during walking, running, or hiking.
At PS Foot and Ankle, located in Bridgewater, NJ, we are proud to be recognized as one of New Jersey’s top-tier foot and ankle centers for diagnosing and treating bunions. We serve patients across Somerset County, Hunterdon County, and Middlesex County, helping them regain comfort, function, and confidence — step by step.
What is a Bunion?
A bunion, or hallux valgus, is a misalignment of the joint at the base of the big toe. This misalignment causes the big toe to drift toward the second toe, resulting in a bony protrusion on the side of the foot.
Common Symptoms of Bunions:
- Pain, especially during walking or prolonged standing
- Swelling and redness around the big toe joint
- Reduced range of motion in the toe
- Difficulty wearing shoes due to pressure on the bunion
Over time, untreated bunions can worsen, potentially leading to joint damage, gait changes, and arthritis.
How Bunions Affect Daily Life and Outdoor Activity
For active individuals and nature lovers, bunions are more than a nuisance — they can hinder your ability to enjoy everyday physical activities.
Whether you’re enjoying a leisurely walk through a Johnson park in Piscataway, tackling a trail in Hillsborough, or planning a hike near Clinton, a painful bunion can limit your ability to move freely.
Outdoor Spots Where Foot Comfort Matters:
- Duke Farms (Hillsborough, NJ) – Great for walking and light hikes
- Round Valley Reservoir (Clinton, NJ) – Scenic hiking trails and steep terrain
- Colonial Park (Somerset, NJ) – Perfect for nature walks and family strolls
- Delaware and Raritan Canal Trail (Piscataway, NJ) – Ideal for long walks and biking
- Flemington’s Deer Path Park – Offers both wooded trails and open walking paths
- Washington Valley Park (Bridgewater, NJ) – Hilly, rocky trails that demand foot stability
When your feet hurt, even these beautiful destinations lose their charm. That’s why addressing bunions is not just about appearance — it’s about preserving your mobility, lifestyle, and overall quality of life.
Comprehensive Bunion Treatment at PS Foot and Ankle
At PS Foot and Ankle, we understand that every patient’s bunion is different. We offer a full spectrum of treatment options, ranging from conservative care to advanced surgical techniques.
Conservative Treatments:
- Custom orthotics to relieve pressure on the bunion
- Padding and shoe modifications
- Anti-inflammatory medications
- Cortisone injections (when necessary)
- Physical therapy for strengthening and gait correction
These approaches can significantly reduce discomfort and delay progression for mild to moderate cases.
Surgical Treatments:
When conservative methods are no longer effective, surgery may be the best option — and our center excels in both traditional and minimally invasive bunion surgery.
Traditional Bunion Surgery:
Also known as a bunionectomy, this approach involves realigning the bones, ligaments, and tendons to correct the deformity and relieve pain.
Minimally Invasive Bunion Surgery:
Our surgeons are also trained in cutting-edge techniques that require only tiny incisions. Benefits include:
- Less pain
- Minimal scarring
- Faster recovery
- Less downtime
Whether you’re an athlete, avid hiker, or just looking to walk comfortably again, we’ll help you decide on the right surgical approach for your lifestyle.
PS Foot and Ankle – Your Trusted Partner in Foot Health
Located in Bridgewater, NJ, PS Foot and Ankle proudly serves residents in:
- Somerset County: Including Hillsborough, Somerville, Somerset, and Bridgewater
- Hunterdon County: Including Clinton, Flemington, and Whitehouse Station
- Middlesex County: Including Piscataway, Edison, and New Brunswick
As a leading podiatry center in Central NJ, we’re committed to offering state-of-the-art care and compassionate service that puts your goals — and your feet — first.
Dr. Sanghvi is a leader in minimally invasive bunion treatment. Come get your toes checked at our office today!
Take the First Step Toward Relief
You don’t have to live with foot pain. If you’re struggling with bunions and it’s interfering with your daily life or outdoor activities, let us help.
👉 Schedule an appointment with PS Foot and Ankle today to explore your treatment options and get back to doing what you love — comfortably.