Treatment Options For Bunions
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. Commonly a bunion involves swelling which creates a large bump on the bone.
The bunion will enlarge without care, and can cause arthritis or stiffness of the joint. As the condition deteriorates the posture of the body becomes distorted, and walking can become difficult. It may also lead to bursitis, which is the swelling of the watery sac in the joint.
Bunions can be prevented by not wearing shoes that cause unnatural stress to the big toe, usually from long term use of tight shoes. Wearing high heeled an tight shoes will increase your chance of developing bunions. There is a hereditary link, by which some people are predisposed to this kind of condition. Also, you are more at risk in developing bunions if you are always on your feet.
If left untreated, bunions can cause the big toe to push the other toes, which is called hammertoes. Also, calluses and corns can also form on high pressure areas of the foot.
Bunion treatment is typically non-invasive, if the condition has not had time to progress. Wearing shoes that offer flexibility and support can help part of the problem.
A physician will be able to help with reducing the swelling and any inflammation. For severe cases, you doctor will give you medicine, yet over the counter medications can work as well.
Bunion treatment for realigning the foot bones works best while you are sleeping. The bones attempt to straighten with the use of splints.
Bunion shields can be worn to guard the bunion during day time hours, and prevent accidental damage, and are effective to use with bunion pads.
Casually exercising the area is also recommended to keep the movement of the joints and muscles to a maximum and to facilitate healing. Only exercises given to you by a doctor should be done.
Typically surgery is unnecessary to alleviate the problem and to improve the health of the feet. In acute cases on the other hand, 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.
For additional information on treatment for bunions, please visit bunion surgery recovery.
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Tagged with: bunion • bunions • feet • medical conditions • treatment
Filed under: Alternative Treatments
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