A bunion is a structural deformity that causes a bump at the base of the big toe. This deformity can be extremely painful. As this problem worsens, damage can be caused to the entire foot. Commonly a bunion involves swelling which creates a large bump on the bone.
The bunion may increase in size without care, 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, especially from wearing 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. Being on your feet for long amounts of time everyday can also increase your chances of getting a bunion.
Untreated bunions can lead to other conditions such as hammertoes, as the big toe pushes against the lesser toes. Also, calluses and corns can also form on high pressure areas of the foot.
Bunion treatment is commonly non-invasive, as long as treatment is begun early. Changing shoes to those with wide flexible uppers and support for the foot helps to ease the problem.
A physician will be able to help with reducing the swelling and any inflammation. In severe instances, you doctor may give you medicine, yet over the counter pain relievers often work well.
Bunion treatment that aids to put the bones of the foot back in place is usually done at night. Night splints straighten the bones in your sleep, when there is no pressure on the foot.
Bunion shields can be used to protect the bunion during day time hours, and can help guard against damage, and are valuable to use with bunion pads.
Casually exercising the foot is also recommended to keep the movement of the joints and muscles to a maximum and to facilitate healing. A physician will be able to advise you of specific exercises to help.
Typically surgery is unnecessary to improve the problem and to improve the health of the feet. In critical cases on the other hand, surgical realignment of the bones is necessary. Surgery is usually a last option because it is not always completely effective and is only used when other methods do not help.
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