Understanding Your Bunion Treatment Options
A bunion is a structural deformity that causes a bump at the base of the big toe. At the first interphalangeal joint, the displacement of the bone causes the toe to bend towards the other toes. 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 increase in size without care, and may cause arthritis or stiffness of the joint. Posture will also suffer if a bunion is left untreated, causing walking difficulties. It may also lead to bursitis, which is the swelling of the watery sac in the joint.
Bunions are caused by the joint of the big toe being placing under unnatural stresses, 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.
If left untreated, bunions can cause the big toe to push the other toes, which is called hammertoes. Also, calluses and corns can also form on high pressure areas of the foot.
Bunion treatment is typically non-invasive, assuming it is treated early. Switching to flexible and supportive shoes often helps.
A physician will be able to help with reducing the swelling and any inflammation. For severe cases, you doctor will prescribe medication, yet over the counter pain relievers often work well.
Bunion treatment for realigning the foot bones works best while you are sleeping. The bones attempt to straighten with the use of splints.
Bunion shields may be utilized to guard the bunion during the day, and prevent accidental damage, and are useful to use with bunion pads.
Lightly exercising the foot is also useful to minimize joint and muscle stiffness. A physician will be able to advise you of specific exercises to help.
Most often surgery is unnecessary to improve symptoms and have healthy feet again. In acute cases however, the bones must be realigned with surgery. 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.