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Do you experience pain while walking? A bunion is an abnormal enlargement of the joint at the base of the big toe that forms when the bone or tissue of this joint is misaligned. As a result, the toe is forced to crowd the other toes, causing pain and discomfort. If left untreated, walking and other day to day activities can be extremely painful. In addition to causing pain, a bunion changes the shape of your foot, making it difficult to find shoes that fit properly. Many people may unnecessarily suffer the pain of bunions for years before seeking treatment. Luckily, with the help of your Richmond podiatrist and simple conservative measures, bunion pain may be managed without surgery. What is a Bunion? A bunion is an abnormal, bony prominence that develops on the joint at the base of your big toe. As the big toe joint becomes enlarged, the toe is forced to crowd against your other toes. The pressure exerted on your big toe joint then results in inflammation and pain. Early treatment is necessary to decrease the risk of developing joint deformities. Bunions develop from prolonged abnormal pressure or motion on the joint. This is most often caused by inherited structural defects, poor fitting shoes, injuries, or congenital deformities. Women generally are more prone to bunions than anyone else because of the shoe styles that are typically worn, such as pointed toes and high heels. Bunion Treatment and Advice Pain associated with bunions can range from mild to severe. The pain can make it difficult to wear shoes and perform normal activities. Some symptoms that are associated with bunions include: • Frequent pain, swelling or redness
• Restricted movement of your big toe
• Enlarged visible bulge on your big toe joint
• Irritation, corns, or calluses caused by an overlap of the first and second toes If you exhibit any of these symptoms, a trip to your local podiatrist will be in order. The earlier you can receive treatment for bunions, the better. Treatment will vary depending on the severity of the bunion. Some early treatments may include: • Wear comfortable shoes
• Apply ice to reduce inflammation and pain
• Apply padding to your foot to place it in its normal position and reduce the stress on the bunion. When early treatments fail or the pain is persistent, it is recommended that you visit your podiatrist for examination. Because bunions are bone deformities, they are not resolved by themselves. The goal for bunion treatment is to relieve pressure and pain caused by irritations, as well as to stop any progressive growth of the enlargement. Some commonly used methods for reducing pressure and pain caused by bunions include: • The use of protective padding
• Removal of corns and calluses on the foot
• Changing to carefully-fitted footwear designed to accommodate the bunion and not contribute to its growth.
• Orthotic devices
• Exercises to maintain joint mobility and prevent stiffness
• Splints for nighttime wear to help the toes and joint align properly. Depending on the size of the enlargement, misalignment of the toe, and pain experienced, conservative treatments may not be adequate to prevent progressive damage from bunions. In these cases, bunion surgery, also known as bunionectomy, may be advised to remove the bunion and realign the toe. Talk to your podiatrist in Richmond at the first sign of a bunion in order to discuss treatment options and prevent progression of the deformity.
Sean Hartmen writes for Dr. Vantre, leading Richmond podiatrist. Dr. Vantre is uniquely qualified to treat any traumatic, reconstructive, or congenital conditions of the foot, hind foot, ankle and lower leg, as well as Richmond bunion and heel pain. Dr. Vantre has also been voted Top Doc 2008 and 2011 by Richmond Magazine.
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