What You Should Know About Bunions

Are you familiar with what doctors call hallux valgus? Probably not, right? However, the term bunions may actually ring a bell for you. Hallux valgus is the medical term for a bunion and this is the bony lump that you can see at the base of your big toe.

Most often, bunions cause pain and discomfort to a person having it. In this article, we will discuss the signs and symptoms and the causes that lead to the deformity.

There are several causes for bunions:

·       Hereditary

·       Birth defects

·       Foot injuries

·       Joint problems like arthritis

·       Extensive wearing of heels, is also considered a factor though experts are still debating on this one

Signs and symptoms of bunions may include:

·       Bony lump on the outside of the base of your big toe

·       Corns and calluses

·       Thickened skin at the base of the big toe

·       Restricted range of motion for your big toe

·       Redness, sore and swollen joint of the big toe

·       Feelings of pain and discomfort

Treatments may include:

·       Maintain a normal weight so that the joints will have unnecessary pressure for bearing additional weight.

·       Have well-fitted shoes with wider area for toes.

·       Give your foot a warm foot bath or apply a heating pad. In some cases, you may apply ice packs to relieve the pain.

·       Avoid high-heeled shoes for women.

·       Ask a doctor for help to tape, splint or put padding on your foot.

·       Pain medications such as Tylenol or Advil can be taken to relieve the pain.

·       Use shoe inserts.

·       Padding

·       Surgery – take note that this is the very last resort to be taken if all treatments will not work in resolving the pain and discomfort. Consult your doctor for the best treatment for you.

Contact James C. Ricketti, DPM and let us address all your foot and ankle needs. Our board-certified podiatrist will tailor treatments based on your individual needs and with our state-of-the-art diagnostic and treatment options, we’ll help you get back on your feet in no time! Call our office today at 609-587-1674 to make an appointment at our conveniently located Hamilton, NJ office.