Bunions
Bunions, also known as Hallux Valgus, are one of the most common forefoot problems. A bunion is a bump on the inside of the foot around the big toe joint. This bump is actually a bone protruding towards the inside of the foot. With the continued movement of the big toe towards the smaller toes, it is common to find the big toe resting under or over the second toe. This causes a common forefoot condition called overlapping toes. It can also be associated with Hammer toes. Some of the symptoms of bunions include inflammation, swelling, and soreness on the side surface of the big toe. The discomfort commonly causes a patient to walk improperly, causing further pain and discomfort.
Cause
Bunions are a common problem experienced mostly by women, though men do suffer from this common problem. The deformity can develop from an abnormality in foot function, or arthritis, but is more commonly caused by wearing improper fitting shoes. Tight, narrow dress shoes with a constrictive toe box (toe area) can cause the foot to begin to take the shape of the shoe, leading to the formation of a bunion. Women who have bunions often wear dress shoes that are too small for their feet. Their toes are squeezed together in their shoes causing the first metatarsal bone to protrude on the side of the foot. The shoe rubbing this prominence is usually the source of the pain, but there can also be joint damage that is causing the pain.
It is important for men and women to realize that wearing dress shoes and boots, which are tapered in the toe area, can cause the bunion to worsen to the point where surgery is necessary.
Treatment and Prevention
In the early stages of the formation of a bunion, soaking your feet in warm water can provide temporary relief. The best way to alleviate the pain associated with bunions is to wear properly fitting shoes. Shoes designed with a high, wide toe box (toe area) are recommended for people suffering from forefoot disorders, such as bunions. If the shoe rubs the bunion and causes pain while trying it on, it is not properly fitted. Shoes with rocker soles will unload pressure to the bunion area. Orthotics are recommended for this condition to provide extra comfort, support, and protection.
There are other conservative treatments include using forefoot products designed to accommodate and relieve bunions such as bunion shields, bunion night splints, and bunion bandages. These conservative treatments are of limited use. A properly fitted shoe may limit the progression of the bunion formation, relieve pain and provide a healthy environment for the foot.
If you still experience pain after trying these treatments, you may need orthotics or need fitted with shoes designed for this type of foot problem. If these conservative measures fail you may need surgery to correct the problem.
If you are experiencing any of these signs or symptoms, call today for an appointment.