Bunions

Bunions  

For effective treatments call Premier Foot Clinic.

What is a bunion? 

A bunion is a bony deformity of the joint at the base of the big toe where the big toe attaches the metatarsal bone on the ball of the foot.
The toe becomes displaced by angling towards the second toe and the base of the toe where it attaches to the metatarsal sticks out.

What do they look like?

The medical name for a bunion is hallux valgus. It is not known exactly what causes feet bunions. Bunions can run in families, thought to be due to inheriting the increased flexibility in joints. Discrepency of certain bones in the foot can also play a role in causing bunions. Poorly fitting shoes can make the condition worse and more symptomatic.
In some cases, inflammatory conditions of joints, such as in Rheumatoid arthritis and gout can cause bunions.
At times, the joint itself can be painful but often it’s the friction from shoes that can cause secondary issues such as callus, corn or even a bursa. Treatment may be directed at stopping from the big toe from displacing the second toe 
Addressing these in the appropriate way can give pain relief.




Non-surgical treatments

- Reduce pressure over the deformity using pads such as bunion pads
- Use of custom made toe spacers to help limit displacement towards the second toe.
- Advice on footwear choices and modification.
- Orthotics may be helpful if some other mechanical defect present.
For some, the above conservative treatments along with painkillers may not offer symptom relief and surgery may be a viable option. Over the years, bunion operations have improved and is now up to 85% of people report improvement of symptoms following bunion surgery.
The right intervention at the right time can help to manage the condition. Come and discuss at Premier Foot Clinic what intervention may be best suited for you.

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