A bunion is a common foot deformity which is caused by an enlargement of the joint connecting the metatarsal of the foot to the first phalange of the big toe. This deformity can be extremely painful. If this problem is not taken care of, the whole foot could suffer. There is also commonly swelling of the side of the producing a large bony lump.
The bunion may worsen if it is not taken care of, and can create a stiff joint or even arthritis. Posture will also suffer if a bunion is left untreated, causing walking difficulties. The bursa, or a watery sac in the joint, may also swell which will lead to bursitis and cause even more pain.
Bunions can be prevented by not wearing shoes that cause unnatural stress to the big toe, usually from long term use of tight shoes. Wearing high heeled an tight shoes will increase your chance of developing bunions. Hereditary can also play a part, cuasing some people to be predisposed to getting bunions. Also, you are more at risk in developing bunions if you are always on your feet.
If left untreated, bunions can cause the big toe to push the other toes, which is called hammertoes. Corns and calluses often form on the feet at pressure points as a result of shifted weight distribution.
Bunion treatment is typically non-invasive, assuming it is treated early. Changing shoes to those with wide flexible uppers and support for the foot helps to ease the problem.
First your doctor will assist you in getting rid of the inflammation. If the bunions are severe, they will give you medicine, yet over the counter pain relief is often sufficient.
Bunion treatment that aids to put the bones of the foot back in place is usually done at night. While you sleep, splints will help straighten the bones.
Bunion shields can be utilized to protect the bunion during day time hours, and can help guard against damage, and are effective in combination with bunion pads.
Casually exercising the problem area is also useful to minimize joint and muscle stiffness. A physician will be able to advise you of specific exercises to help.
Commonly surgery is unnecessary to lessen the problem and to improve the health of the feet. In acute cases though, surgical realignment of the bones is necessary. Since it isn’t always effective, surgery is used as the final option in cases that have not been helped in any other way.
For additional information on treatment for bunions, please visit bunion surgery recovery.
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