Bunion Do’s and Don’ts

Bunion Do’s and Don’ts

Bunion

The majority of us don’t pay that much attention to our feet. However, for those with bunions, you should pay greater attention, particularly if you experience pain. Unfortunately, women are more prone to get a bunion than men.

A bunion (hallux valgus) is a bony bump that forms on the side of the big toe. It causes your toe to move inward and is typically caused by ill-fitted footwear and genetics. Some bunions may enlarge with time and can be painful.

You can take steps to potentially avoid pain from the bunion and its progression. Here are some do’s and don’ts about bunions that you should know.

Do consider footwear changes:

Wearing shoes with a broader toe area will give a bunion more room if it is giving you pain or discomfort. Since tight-fitted shoes put additional pressure on the toe ball region, ladies who wear high heels should reconsider choosing more comfortable footwear. Avoid wearing shoes that are too tight, pointed or put pressure on your toes.

Don’t hold back relevant information:

Parents with foot issues can pass on their genetics to their kids, who are more likely to acquire bunions. This improper foot growth can result in pressure being applied to and inside the foot, which frequently causes bunions.

The same goes for people with arthritic conditions, inflammatory joint diseases, and those with flat feet or low arches. Workplaces that tend to be more stressful on your feet can also exacerbate the issue.

Do visit a podiatrist:

You should visit a podiatrist if you suspect you have a bunion. If untreated, bunions can grow larger, become more painful, and cause other problems. Your podiatrist can determine the best course of action to prevent aggravating the condition.

Don’t take the bunion lightly:

If left untreated, a bunion can cause arthritis, especially, if severe long-lasting damage has been done to the big toe joint. The tissue in the joint may degrade as a result of bunions. While arthritis cannot be treated, bunions can be and should not be ignored. Visit a podiatrist today for more information.

The primary sign that a bunion has to be surgically corrected is if the pain becomes so excruciating that it restricts your routine. There are various methods for treating bunions. Depending on the seriousness of the bunion, the likelihood of arthritis in the joint, and your degree of activity, your podiatrist will choose the best treatment option for you.

At the New Jersey Podiatric Physicians & Surgeons Group, there are almost 30 foot and ankle surgeons, podiatrists, and doctors. With more than 30 locations, from Newark, NJ, to Cape May, NJ, we value convenience and excellent service for our patients. We offer compassionate, cutting-edge care across our network, and we are here to address all your foot concerns. Our group is among the best foot and ankle providers in the country. To schedule an appointment, first find a podiatrist in your area.