Treatment Options For Bunions
A bunion is a common foot deformity which is caused by an enlargement of the joint connecting the metatarsal of the foot to the first phalange of the big toe. This deformity can be extremely painful. As this problem worsens, damage can be caused to the entire foot. There is also commonly swelling of the side of the producing a large bony lump.
The lump can increase in size without care, and may create a stiff joint or even arthritis. Walking can also become difficult because posture will deteriorate. 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, usually from long term use of tight shoes. Wearing high heeled an tight shoes will increase your chance of developing bunions. Bunions can also be linked to hereditary. Being on your feet for long amounts of time everyday can also increase your chances of getting a bunion.
Untreated bunions can lead to other conditions such as hammertoes, as the big toe pushes against the lesser toes. Also, calluses and corns can also form on high pressure areas of the foot.
Bunion treatment is typically non-invasive, as long as treatment is begun early. Changing shoes to those with wide flexible uppers and support for the foot helps to ease the problem.
A physician will be able to help with reducing the swelling and any inflammation. In severe instances, they may give you medicine, although over the counter pain relief is often sufficient.
Bunion treatment that aids to put the bones of the foot back in place is usually done at night. Night splints straighten the bones in your sleep, when there is no pressure on the foot.
Bunion shields may be worn to care for the bunion during the day, and damage can be prevented, and are useful in combination with bunion pads.
Lightly exercising the problem area is also recommended to keep the movement of the joints and muscles to a maximum and to facilitate healing. Only exercises given to you by a doctor should be done.
Commonly surgery is not necessary to alleviate the problem and to improve the health of the feet. In critical cases though, surgery is the only way to realign the bones of the foot. Surgery is usually a last option because it is not always completely effective and is only used when other methods do not help.
For additional information on treatment for bunions, please visit bunion surgery recovery.
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