Bunions
Bunions most often develop near the base of the big toe and are recognized by the abnormal bump that appears in that location. A bunion begins as a partial dislocation of the big toe that leaves the end of the bone in the foot (metatarsal) exposed. Over time the joint can become enlarged and deformed, causing the bump to be more pronounced and uncomfortable.
While bunions actually develop for a variety of reasons one of the most frequent factors is footwear; wearing high heels, shoes that are constrictive, and shoes with an unusually narrow toe box are often contribute to the development of this condition. Bunions may also develop as a result of inherited structural defects, injury, or a chronic condition such as arthritis. It’s also possible for much smaller bunions, which are often referred to as ‘bunionettes’ or ‘tailor’s bunions’, to develop on the joint of the little toe.
The development of a bump on the outside of the foot is the most obvious sign of a bunion but it is not the only one; swelling, redness and tenderness may develop around the displaced joint and the skin at the base of the toe may become hard and/or unusually thick. It also frequently happens that corns and calluses develop at the point where the first and second toes overlap.
Bunions often become more painful over time, particularly if there is severe inflammation in the surrounding tissues, and restricted movement in the big toe may become an issue as well. In severe cases wearing shoes may be difficult if the deformity becomes extremely pronounced or if the displaced big toe creates enough pressure on the other toes that ‘hammertoe’ develops.
Bunions can occur at any age and unless they are surgically removed they are permanent, though most people do not elect to have surgery performed unless there are serious, extenuating circumstances. Because bunions can become painful or prominent to the point of interfering with daily activities many people seek conservative treatments to alleviate pain and prevent the growth from becoming worse.
The primary recommendation for the conservative treatment of bunions is a modification in footwear; roomy, supportive shoes with plenty of space for the toes should be worn at all times. Tight, constrictive shoes and high heels should be avoided at all costs. Bunion pads will cushion the protrusion and reduce friction on the skin as well, which not relieves pressure on the growth but protects the skin and reduces inflammation.
The use of orthotic devices such as padded shoe inserts can distribute pressure evenly during weight bearing activities, which will help to minimize painful symptoms and prevent the bunion from getting worse. While over the counter orthotics work for most people severe deformities or unorthodox foot structures may require custom inserts. While anti-inflammatory medication will help reduce discomfort they are not recommended as a long term solution.
The risk of developing bunions can be reduced by wearing supportive shoes with adequate space for the toes. Not only should the toes be able to spread out within the shoe but there should be space between the tip of the longest toe and the end of the shoe as well.
While bunions actually develop for a variety of reasons one of the most frequent factors is footwear; wearing high heels, shoes that are constrictive, and shoes with an unusually narrow toe box are often contribute to the development of this condition. Bunions may also develop as a result of inherited structural defects, injury, or a chronic condition such as arthritis. It’s also possible for much smaller bunions, which are often referred to as ‘bunionettes’ or ‘tailor’s bunions’, to develop on the joint of the little toe.
The development of a bump on the outside of the foot is the most obvious sign of a bunion but it is not the only one; swelling, redness and tenderness may develop around the displaced joint and the skin at the base of the toe may become hard and/or unusually thick. It also frequently happens that corns and calluses develop at the point where the first and second toes overlap.
Bunions often become more painful over time, particularly if there is severe inflammation in the surrounding tissues, and restricted movement in the big toe may become an issue as well. In severe cases wearing shoes may be difficult if the deformity becomes extremely pronounced or if the displaced big toe creates enough pressure on the other toes that ‘hammertoe’ develops.
Bunions can occur at any age and unless they are surgically removed they are permanent, though most people do not elect to have surgery performed unless there are serious, extenuating circumstances. Because bunions can become painful or prominent to the point of interfering with daily activities many people seek conservative treatments to alleviate pain and prevent the growth from becoming worse.
The primary recommendation for the conservative treatment of bunions is a modification in footwear; roomy, supportive shoes with plenty of space for the toes should be worn at all times. Tight, constrictive shoes and high heels should be avoided at all costs. Bunion pads will cushion the protrusion and reduce friction on the skin as well, which not relieves pressure on the growth but protects the skin and reduces inflammation.
The use of orthotic devices such as padded shoe inserts can distribute pressure evenly during weight bearing activities, which will help to minimize painful symptoms and prevent the bunion from getting worse. While over the counter orthotics work for most people severe deformities or unorthodox foot structures may require custom inserts. While anti-inflammatory medication will help reduce discomfort they are not recommended as a long term solution.
The risk of developing bunions can be reduced by wearing supportive shoes with adequate space for the toes. Not only should the toes be able to spread out within the shoe but there should be space between the tip of the longest toe and the end of the shoe as well.
Suzy Pickhall, who has been a foot care expert over the past thirty years has written a viable guide on how to combat Plantar Fasciitis, and a guide on Heel Spurs.