According to the American Podiatric Medical Association, bunions are a “bump” on the joint at the base of the big toe—the metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint—that forms when the bone or tissue at the big toe joint moves out of place. Bunions can also occur at the base of smaller toes, where they are labeled “tailor’s bunion.”
When abnormal forces are exerted on the joints and tendons of the foot, it causes instability in the joint, which then causes the formation of bunions. Bunions result from prolonged abnormal motion and irregular pressure over the MTP joint.
Bunions are hereditary; however, it is the type of foot that is passed down, not the bunion. Parents suffering from foot abnormalities can pass it on to their children.
The goal of treatment is to relieve stress and pain and stop the development of the bunion.
Home Treatment:
Always have your feet properly sized whenever you buy shoes
Wear comfortable shoes that have a roomy toe box
Avoid excessively high heels of more than 2 inches
If the bunion in becoming painful, treat it with ice packs numerous times a day to avoid swelling
Office Treatment:
Medical treatment options vary with the severity of the bunion. Bunions, if left untreated, can become more painful, requiring medical evaluation.
Padding and taping
Padding diminishes pain and enables one to continue an active life. Taping aids in keeping the foot at a regular position, which reduces stress and pain.
Medication
In order to reduce inflammation produced by bunions, anti-inflammatory drugs, as well as cortisone injections may be recommended
Shoe inserts can reducebunion symptoms and may stop it from becoming worse
Permanent:
When conservation treatment options fail to be effective, permanent treatment of the bunion is the only solution to relieve pain and pressure. An outpatient procedurewill remove the bony prominence that is the cause of pain, and restore the normal functioning of the toe joint. You can resume working after two to three days. For instance, if you have the procedure on Thursday, you may return to work on Monday. However, some swelling and pain may occur for a few weeks after the surgery, but can be managed with pain medication.
Please call our office, 281-395-FEET (3338) to meet with our doctors. During your visit our doctors can provide a thorough evaluation and recommendations in regard to your uncomfortable, painful, or noticeable bunions.
