Bunions
What are bunions?
A bunion is an abnormal bony bump that forms on the joint at the base of your toe. The signs and symptoms are:
- Bulging bump on the outside of your bog toe
- Swelling and redness around the big toe joint
- Thickening of the skin at the base of your big toe
- Persistent or intermittent pain
- Limited movement in the big toe
- Corns or calluses, usually form where the first and second toes overlap
What causes bunions?
Bunions are formed when your big toe pushes up against your other toes. It forces the big toe joint in the opposite direction, away from the normal profile of your foot. Over time this abnormal positioning causes the joint to become enlarged, causing more crowding and joint pain. The most common reason for bunions is wearing shoes that are too narrow or fit too tightly. They can also be caused from stress on your foot, a medical condition (i.e. arthritis), or the result of an inherited structural defect.
What can the doctor do for me?
The doctor will examine your foot. He may ask you to move your foot so he can check the range of motion. He may decide to do an x-ray to determine the cause and severity of the bunion. He will want to know the level of pain it causes you. The doctor will then discuss various treatment options with you. You may be a candidate for surgery or other treatments. The best thing you can to for yourself is to make an appointment to see how he can help you! Don’t allow yourself to be in unnecessary pain…call for an appointment today!
