The Various Treatment Options For Bunion Sufferers
A bunion is a common foot deformity which is caused by an enlargement of the joint connecting the metatarsal of the foot to the first phalange of the big toe. This deformity can be extremely painful. If this problem is not taken care of, the whole foot could suffer. There is also commonly swelling of the side of the producing a large bony lump.
The lump will increase in size without care, and can cause a stiff joint or even arthritis. Walking can also become difficult because posture will deteriorate. Inflammation and swelling of the bursa, a watery sac in the joint, leads to a painful condition called bursitis.
Bunions can be prevented by not wearing shoes that cause unnatural stress to the big toe, usually from long term use of tight shoes. Women who wear high heeled dress shoes frequently have an increased risk of developing bunions in later life. Bunions can also be linked to hereditary. Also, you are more at risk in developing bunions if you are always on your feet.
Hammertoes, wherein the big toe begins to push the other toes, can occur if bunions are left untreated. Also, calluses and corns can also form on high pressure areas of the foot.
Bunion treatment is often non-invasive, assuming it is treated early. Wearing shoes that offer flexibility and support can help part of the problem.
First your doctor will assist you in getting rid of the inflammation. For severe cases, they will give you medicine, although over the counter pain relievers often work well.
Bunion treatment to realign the bones in the foot is particularly effective at night. While you sleep, splints will help straighten the bones.
Bunion shields can be utilized to guard the bunion during day time hours, and damage can be prevented, and are useful to use with bunion pads.
Lightly exercising the area is also useful to keep the movement of the joints and muscles to a maximum and to facilitate healing. A physician will be able to advise you of specific exercises to help.
Typically surgery is not necessary to lessen symptoms and have healthy feet again. In acute cases though, surgical realignment of the bones is necessary. Surgery is usually a last option because it is not always completely effective and is only used when other methods do not help.
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