Fall season is fast approaching.
Autumn is a painful time of year for many New York women.
As they transition from open-toed sandals to closed-in boots and shoes, I notice more women seeking relief for painful bunions.
Some of my female bunion patients are in agony. They describe a constant, throbbing pain, even when they take their shoes off.
While the changing weather brings more bunion patients into my office, some women inquire about surgery in the fall because they’re less busy than in summer months. Many are also closer to meeting their insurance deductibles.
I emphasize that surgery is a last-resort treatment for women with painful bunions.
For many women, simple changes like wearing shoes with wider toe boxes can significantly reduce bunion pain. Custom shoe inserts, gel- or foam-filled padding and anti-inflammatory medications may also provide pain relief.
When the pain of a bunion interferes with a woman’s daily activities, it’s time to discuss surgical options.
Glenn J Donovan, DPM
Dr. Donovan is the Chief of Podiatry at Coney Island Hospital.
For more information on foot problems please contact Dr. Donovan at 718-616-5509
