A common deformity of the big toe joint, a bunion typically forms when the great toe begins to point towards the smaller toes. This is often due to the wearing of tight shoes, which leads to a bunching of the toes. This bunching puts pressure on the great toe joint, pushing it outward and thus forming a bunion.
Because of the make of many women’s shoes – often tight, pointed, or confining – women are more frequently affected with bunions.
Symptoms of Bunions
• Red, calloused skin along the inside edge of the big toe
• A bony bump on the outside of the big toe
• Joint pain, aggravated by pressure
• Big toe pointed inward
Treatment of Bunions
If you experience any of the above symptoms, schedule an appointment with your podiatrist at your earliest convenience. Odds are he/she will have you try the following early bunion treatment solutions:
• Padding: This is the first and most important step in terms of early treatment.
• Wearing wide-toed shoes
• Orthoses (shoe inserts): These may be used to reduce abnormal foot movement and may reduce bunion symptoms.
• Medication: Anti-inflammatory drugs or cortisone injections may be prescribed to ease pain and inflammation.
• Physical Therapy: ultrasound treatment, whirlpool baths or other techniques can also provide temporary relief
These early treatment tricks will often solve your bunion problem and prevent the need for further medical intervention. However, if the situation doesn’t resolve itself – or if you experience severe deformity and pain – contact your podiatrist right away. Surgery to realign the toe and remove the bony bump (bunionectomy) may be your last option.
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If you have any other questions or wish to schedule an appointment, contact We Treat Feet Podiatry by clicking here to view our various locations and phone numbers!
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From heel pain, bunions, Sports medicine injuries, broken bones, neuromas, hammertoes, and flatfeet to Achilles tendon problems, we have the most modern technology available to help you, including digital x-ray, diagnostic ultrasound, and vascular testing equipment.
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