Have
you been suffering from a bump on the outer edge of your big toe? Do you think
your big toe is moving and pointing towards your second toe? Experienced foot
doctors consider this physical deformity at the base of your big toe as a bunion.
Bunions
are structural problems where the joint of your big toe becomes subluxed and
drifts towards the smaller toes. It is an enlargement of tissue or bone around
the big toe joint. As compared to their male counterparts, women report about
bunions more than ten times due to their poor footwear selection.
Though
bunions may start of as a minor issue at first, over time, they may develop
into a severe foot deformity. Seeking the assistance of a certified foot doctor
can thus be a great way to cure this painful foot condition, despite its
severity. While some patients begin their treatment with the smallest bunion,
there are others who consider neglecting the condition until it gets severe.
Here’s
all you need to know about Bunion!
What Causes Bunions?
It
is usually believed that a distortion of the bone caused by various genetic
factors leads to the development of bunions.
Other
factors which can lead to bunion include-
Symptoms You Need Bunion Treatment
- Previous foot injury
- Loose ligaments
- Arthritis
- Abnormal development of your foot
Symptoms You Need Bunion Treatment
Bunions
may or may not cause any symptoms. Even if they have symptoms, it includes-
- Joint stiffness or foot pain
- Joint redness
- Enlargement or swelling at the base of the big toe
- Displacement of the big toe
- Bony bump which feels tender to touch
- Skin irritation over the enlarged area
Consider
calling in an experienced foot doctor if-
- Your big toe is beginning to overlap your second toe
- You suffer from severe big toe pain
- Foot pain interferes with your daily or walking activities
- Pain in the big toe does not get better even after 2-3 weeks
While
it’s true that you can always try home treatment options, it is always wise to
consult a skilled foot specialist for advanced bunion treatment. At first, your
doctor will check on why you have got bunions. This cause will affect the
treatment you need. Your doctor may recommend a prescription or
over-the-counter pain reliever and medicines to relieve pain and swelling.
Some
other treatment options for bunions include custom-made orthotics, arch
supports and custom-made footwear. Each of these may change the way muscles,
bones and ligaments of the foot work together. Though these will not cure the
bunion, they will definitely help in relieving some structural problems.
Can A Bunion Be Prevented?
Bunions,
when identified early can be slowed or stopped during their development.
Delaying the progression of bunions and preventing the symptoms rely on wearing
proper footwear. In case you have bunions, you may relieve foot pain and
prevent the progression of your condition by wearing proper shoes which are
customised to fit your feet and accommodate your condition.
So
what’s still holding you back? Visit a renowned podiatric clinic and fix your
appointment with a leading podiatrist!