What Are Bunions?
Bunions are a frequent problem that we frequently see in our clinics, typically due to discomfort in the bunion, or thinking the toe is unattractive.
A bunion is typically described as a bony bump that is located on the opposite side of the large toe. The bump's appearance is due to variations in bony foot's structure. The medical term used to describe bunion is 'Hallux abducto Valgus' (HAV). The word refers to the placement of the toe when it begins to rotate towards the side and then gradually move towards the smaller toes, resulting in a larger forefoot.
Why Do Bunions develop?
A bunion is formed due to the increased pressure and force applied to the toe's big joint. The most common causes are:
- Hereditary causes (by far the largest factor)
- Long-term use of shoes that aren't enough narrow
- Biomechanical aspects
- Arthritis of the feet
The most prevalent reason for this is genetics. If you've seen an unnatural bunion on your parents' feet or even your grandparents' feet, it is likely that you're more likely of acquiring it! Although it's the primary cause is usually the result of a mix of different aspects as well.
The other major aspect is the footwear. If you think of your foot in a shoe that is tight fitting, that causes it to get constrained and in an awkward position in which the toes are squeezed together, while the joint of your big toe sticks out. Over time, this can result in a change that is more permanent in the joint, which causes the toe's big one to shift towards the second toe and the other toe to claw.
The Signs, Symptoms, and Development of Bunions
While bunions may not be symptoms, they are chronic disorders which means they will get worse with time. They start with mild leaning on the large toe toward the second toe. Common signs and symptoms are:
- A bony bump that develops on the inside or at the top of the toe big one that can turn swelling and red.
- The stiffness of the joint, as well as loss of motion in the joint
- Pain that is deep and aching in the joint, which gets worse by wearing shoes
- It is difficult to fit shoes
- Most common in women
- The 2nd toe is beginning to deform
The stages of bunions are categorized into Bunions.
- Stage 1 (mild)
- Stage 2 (moderate)
- Stage 3 (severe)
The pain can be experienced at any time However, the advanced ones are more often associated with pain and difficulties finding a suitable shoe. As you could imagine, as your toe's big one moves towards the second toe, the bump becomes bigger and more painful, and the footwear choices are more difficult. Other problems with the forefoot also become more frequent because the smaller toes are affected as well.
The Role Of A Podiatrist In Bunion Management
A podiatrist's job is to help manage the bunion. The podiatrist will evaluate your bunion in Perth, gait, foot, and as well as the seriousness of your problem and will then discuss the non-surgical, conservative treatment options.
The most common treatment options for bunions are:
- Custom orthotics can help alleviate areas that are overloaded and worked on, aid in re-aligning the foot, and stop the toe from further slipping into the side.
- Exercises that help increase the strength of certain of the smaller muscles surrounding the joint.
- The advice on footwear is to evaluate your footwear and provide the right advice to limit the progression of your bunion and ease discomfort
- Joint mobilization is the process of using hands-on therapy to improve the joint's mobility.
If you're still experiencing pain and have exhausted all options for treatment It's possible that your podiatrist recommend an operating opinion.
Bunions are a common complaint that is seen at our office. If you're experiencing discomfort or are worried regarding your feet, and you don't wish to risk causing your bunion to get worse, do not hesitate to reach us by calling The Foot Focus Podiatry in Perth as we are able to fully analyze your problem and help you discover the best solution.
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