Specialized Care for Bunion Pain
A bunion is a progressive joint condition that worsens over time without proper treatment. Canyon Oaks Foot & Ankle provides comprehensive bunion care, from conservative non-surgical options to advanced surgical correction, helping patients find lasting relief and get back to moving comfortably.
Board-certified foot & ankle specialists
Non-surgical and surgical options available
Same-week appointments when possible
What Is a Bunion and Why Does It Progress?
A bunion is a bony prominence that forms at the base of the big toe when the joint shifts out of alignment. It is not simply a cosmetic issue
Common signs include:
A visible bony bump on the side of the big toe joint
The big toe drifting toward or overlapping adjacent toes
Redness, swelling, or tenderness around the big toe joint
Persistent discomfort when walking or wearing shoes
Difficulty finding shoes that fit properly
Calluses or corns developing where toes press together
Bunions do not always begin with severe pain. Many patients live with early symptoms for years before seeking a professional evaluation.
Meet Our Foot & Ankle Specialists
Dr. Derek Florek
Dr. Derek Florek is a skilled podiatric physician and surgeon with extensive experience in foot and ankle care, serving patients in the Central Valley through Canyon Oaks Foot & Ankle. He is passionate about helping people move without pain while building strong, trusted relationships with his patients, with special interests in plantar fasciitis, trauma, foot and ankle deformities, and diabetic foot complications.
Podiatric Physician
Dr. Tyler May
Dr. Tyler May is a skilled podiatric physician and surgeon with extensive experience in foot and ankle care, serving patients at Canyon Oaks Foot & Ankle in the Central Valley. He is passionate about patient welfare and delivering high-quality outcomes, and is known for his broad podiatric knowledge and surgical experience.
Podiatric Physician
Dr. Blake Nelson
Dr. Blake Nelson is a skilled podiatric physician with extensive experience in foot and ankle care, serving patients at Canyon Oaks Foot & Ankle in the Central Valley. He is passionate about improving patient mobility and delivering high-quality podiatry care across multiple local clinic locations. Dr. Nelson is a Doctor of Podiatric Medicine (D.P.M.) and is board certified by the American Board of Podiatric Medicine.
Podiatric Physician
Maritza Rivera
Maritza Rivera, NP, is a skilled nurse practitioner with experience in patient care and clinical support, serving patients at Canyon Oaks Foot & Ankle in the Central Valley. She is passionate about helping patients feel heard, cared for, and confident in their treatment plan while supporting high-quality outcomes. As part of the Canyon Oaks team, she helps deliver compassionate, efficient foot and ankle care.
NP
Who This Consultation Is For
Our bunion care program is designed for...
Patients who have noticed a bony bump forming at the base of the big toe
Patients whose foot discomfort is affecting daily routines or physical activity
Patients who have tried wider shoes or padding without finding adequate relief
Patients whose big toe has begun drifting toward adjacent toes
Patients who want to understand whether surgery is necessary for their situation
Patients who have been told to monitor a bunion but have not yet seen a specialist
Bunion treatment is most effective when started early. Our specialists work with patients at every stage of the condition to find the right approach for their individual situation.
Benefits of Consultation
What You’ll Gain From Your Visit
Accurate Diagnosis
Our specialists determine the current stage of the bunion and what that means for available treatment options.
Non-Surgical Options Explored First
Our doctors always evaluate conservative treatments before recommending surgery. Many patients find significant relief without an operation.
Specialist Evaluation
Bunion treatment requires an understanding of how the joint progresses over time. Our team has the training and experience to manage the condition at every stage.
Clear Plan
Patients leave with a specific treatment recommendation and a clear understanding of their options, not just general advice.
Ready to get started?
Testimonials
It's always a great feeling when you are witness to people who really like what they're doing. The staff here was all smiles and very approachable. Of course Dr. Rupley is great! I look forward to m my visits. Today I met Joy, assistant to the doctor. Whoever chose her name couldn't have been more correct! She really is a joy!
Diane Kesty
Today was my first visit to Canyon Oaks and I was very happy with the service I received! Dr. Ripley did an excellent job taking care of my reoccurring foot issues and explained the reasons it keeps coming back. Everything about my experience was positive and I highly recommend this office to anyone needing podiatry care!
Amy Rose
Dr. Rupley is an excellent addition to Canyon Oaks. She brings much knowledge and experience. The staff is helpful and friendly. Treat them with respect and kindness, you will receive the same. I have my feet due to Dr. Rupley’s care throughout the years. Thank you It does help your case to follow the doctors advice and instructions. I had the misfortune of not following them and paid for it dearly, during an episode years ago.
David Mosebar
The staff is amazing. I definitely recommend this place to anyone in need. Dr. Nelson is hilarious. He did a great job removing my ingrown toenails and explained everything step by step. I had watched youtube videos on the procedure so I was a bit nervous upon arrival but I felt at ease within seconds of being under their care. They are fast, efficient, and again, super funny!
America Leyva
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens during the first appointment?
One of our foot and ankle specialists will examine the foot, review the patient's symptoms and medical history, and assess the current stage of the bunion. The visit concludes with a clear diagnosis and a recommended treatment plan tailored to the patient's situation.
Is surgery always required for bunions?
No. Many patients manage bunion discomfort and slow progression with conservative treatments such as orthotics, footwear modifications, padding, or physical therapy. Surgery is typically recommended only when non-surgical options have not provided sufficient relief or when the deformity has progressed significantly.
How is a bunion different from other foot bumps?
A bunion is specifically a misalignment of the metatarsophalangeal joint at the base of the big toe. Other conditions such as bone spurs or bursitis can appear similar. Our specialists confirm the diagnosis through a physical exam and imaging when needed.
Will a bunion get worse without treatment?
Bunions are a progressive condition. Without treatment or lifestyle adjustments, the joint misalignment and associated discomfort typically increase over time. Early evaluation provides the widest range of treatment options.
How soon can an appointment be scheduled?
Our clinic offers convenient scheduling and strives to provide same-week appointments when available. Submit the form above and our team will reach out within one business day.
Expert Bunion Care That Starts With a Conversation
A bunion consultation at Canyon Oaks Foot & Ankle takes less than an hour and gives patients a complete picture of their condition and what the right next step looks like for their specific situation.
Schedule a consultation with Canyon Oaks Foot & Ankle today.
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