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One of the most common forefoot problems are bunions, which are also referred to as Hallux Valgus. The bunion is a prominent bump on the inside of the foot around the big toe joint. The bone, which protrudes towards the inside of the foot, can often result in pushing the big toe under or over the second toe. Although bunions are a common foot deformity, there are often misconceptions about them. Many people may even go about their lives not realizing they have a bunion because it does not initially cause pain. Bunions are a progressive disorder in which the bump becomes increasingly prominent. Symptoms usually appear at later stages, but some people may not exhibit any pain or deformities at all. What is a Bunion? A bunion is a prominent bump on the inside of your foot around the big toe joint. Your joint carries a lot of weight while walking, which causes the bunions to be extremely painful if left untreated. The metatarsophalangeal joint, which is where the bunion forms, may become stiff and sore. This can make wearing shoes difficult as well. Some symptoms of bunions include: • Development of a firm bump on the outside edge of the foot
• Redness, swelling, or pain at or near the metatarsophalangeal joint (MTP) joint
• Corns or other irritations caused by the overlap of the first and second toes
• Restricted or painful motion of the big toe When the normal balance of forces that are exerted on your joints and tendons are disrupted, a bunion may form. This can lead to a deformity and instability of the joint. Years of abnormal motion and pressure over the MTP joint, bring out bunions, causing them to be a symptom of faulty foot development. Bunion Treatment Treatment for your bunion will vary depending on its severity. Identifying the condition in its early stages is important to avoid surgery. The main objective of early treatment is to relieve pressure and stop the progression of the deformity. Conservative treatments such as padding, modified footwear, or orthotic devices can be highly effective for preventing further growth and reducing pressure and pain. The following are recommended for reducing pressure and pain that is caused by bunions: • Wear comfortable shoes that don't cramp or irritate your toes
• Avoid high heeled shoes
• Apply ice to reduce inflammation and pain
• Apply padding to your foot to place it in its normal position, reducing stress on the bunion If conventional methods fail to relieve your bunion pain or when the pain of your bunion is affecting your everyday activities, surgery may be needed as directed by your podiatrist. A variety of surgical procedures are available to treat bunions and are designed to remove the "bump" of bone, correct the changes in the bony structure of the foot, and repair soft tissue changes that may also have occurred.
Your podiatrist will take into consideration the extent of your deformity based on x-rays, your age, activity level, and other factors. In addition, the length of recovery will vary depending on the procedure or procedures performed. It is important to not ignore foot pain, as it can worsen over time. Protect your feet and seek treatment immediately from your podiatrist in New York City.
Sean Hartmen writes for leading podiatrist in New York City, NY, Dr. Kenneth Meisler and his team of professional podiatrists. Offering cutting-edge technology such as digital x-rays, diagnostic ultrasound imaging and bunion surgery in New York City, Dr. Meisler and his team are committed to providing the best quality podiatric care.
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