Bunions

Bunions – Diagnosis, Treatment, and Prevention

Backed up by years of experience, Good Feet is an expert in all types of foot pain and problems, including bunions.

A bunion is simply a bump or an enlargement of the joint located near the big toe. This usually happens due to new bone formation and in effect causes the joint in the big toe to move outward. If this worsens there can be swelling and pain making it extremely hard to run or to walk. Shoe fitting can also be hard with the presence of bunions.

There are reports that say that bunions appear more frequently in women than in men, and are usually caused by inappropriate and uncomfortable footwear. Tight fitting shoes, narrow toed, and even high heeled shoes for women are the usual culprits for bunions. There is also a higher risk of bunions forming in people who wear shoes a lot compared to those who walk barefoot.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Bunion treatments are done only after the diagnosis. Although most feet seem to have bunions, the only way to really tell if you have one is through an x-ray. In some cases a blood test may also be required to see if a certain form of arthritis is causing the pain.

When it comes to bunion treatments, it depends in the severity of each case. For immediate pain or discomfort, over the counter meds can be purchased; a warm foot bath or heat medicated pads can also help ease the pain. Aside from medication your doctor will suggest the use of orthopedic shoes or custom made inserts.

But if the case is severe, then surgery may be required.

How to Prevent Bunions

Aside from bunion treatments, the best way is to avoid getting it in the first place. One way to prevent is to avoid uncomfortable and tight fitting shoes. Try to exercise your feet and stretch it from time to time to relieve it from the day’s stress.

Good Feet provides solutions and answers to all types of foot problems. We provide solutions to foot pain, inflammations and aches caused by all sorts of foot problems. With a simple phone call you can make any type of foot pain go away.