We all have that one pair of shoes that we’ve had longer than recorded history that are a little too narrow. Or maybe you have a pair of nice high heels that are a little too tight. Though you may be able to get away with it for a while, you may be at risk of developing bunions. Bunions are extremely uncomfortable, and if you don’t take care of them properly, you may be risking your foot health more than you know.
First of all, what is a bunion? A bunion is a bony protrusion or bump that forms on the joint of the big toe. A bunion can be caused many different ways, simply put, the end of your big toe is being pulled to the side towards your other toes. This causes the joint of your big toe to stick out, causing the characteristic bump. This same issue can occur with your pinky toe being pulled inwards towards your big toe. This can cause a bunion on the pinky toe joint called a bunionette, or tailors bunion.
There are several ways you could end up with a bunion. Unfortunately, some folks are predisposed to having bunions either due to your foot shape or various defects at birth or even can come from a long line of bunions in your lineage. You can also be at risk if you have arthritis, inflammation, or if you suffer a foot injury. It is also possible that tight fitting shoes or narrow shoes can lead to bunions or bunionettes.
Now that we know what causes a bunion, what are some other symptoms that could indicate a bunion is forming. Aside from the obvious large bump on your toe joint, you may also notice swelling or redness around the joint. Along with the swelling, a sign you are developing a bunion could be new calluses or corns forming from your toes rubbing together unusually. Lastly, you may notice limited movement or pain when moving your big toe. All of these could be signs that you are at risk of developing a bunion.
So how do you deal with a bunion? If the bunion isn’t preventing you from your daily tasks and isn’t hurting too much, you can consider getting custom made orthotics or shoes with a wider toe area or toe box. You can also look into toe exercises. Pueblo Ankle and Foot Care suggests the exercises called ‘Toega’. If though, your pain is severe or hampering your movement, you don’t have too many options besides surgery. Despite what you see on Amazon there isn’t any sort of at home cure or brace that will totally correct the issue. We exhaust conservative treatments before offering and considering surgery by our highly trained podiatric surgeons. Luckily for you we have a tremendous staff of doctors here at Pueblo Ankle and Foot Care who can take care of your bunion and get you back on your feet!
