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Doctor, what is a bunion?
A bunion is a painful enlargement of the joint in the base of the big toe that results from the big toe shifting out of place. This causes the big toe to bend toward the smaller toes, producing a painful bump on the inside of the foot. Bunions can be extremely painful. The joint in the big toe can become sore and stiff and eventually make wearing shoes difficult. Bunions are the result of abnormal foot mechanics. Certain types of shoes also can contribute to the development of bunions, which is why bunions are more common in women than men. Bunions can often be associated with arthritis. They also may occur on the outside of the foot near the little toe. This is called a “bunionette” or “tailor’s bunion.”
Symptoms of bunions include a large painful bump on the side of the foot, redness, swelling, or pain near the big toe joint, painful corns or calluses near the big toe, restricted or painful motion of the big toe, and the inability to wear appropriate foot gear.
Treatment options vary depending on the type of bunion and the severity. If treated early, surgery can be avoided. That is why it is important to see your podiatrist at the first sign of pain or discomfort. As part of the treatment plan, your podiatrist will take an X-ray to evaluate the degree of involvement and to recommend a treatment plan specific to your needs. If bunions are left untreated, they will become larger and more painful, which makes conservative treatment less effective. The primary goal in conservative treatment of bunions is to relieve pain and to stop the progression of the deformity. Conservative treatments of bunions include padding, anti-inflammatory medications, cortisone injections, physical therapy and custom-made orthotics.
When conservative treatments fail or the bunion progresses to the point where conservative treatment is no longer a viable option, surgical intervention may be needed to correct the deformity. There are several different procedures for correction of a bunion. The surgery can be as simple as removal of the bump to a more extensive procedure requiring cutting through bone to align the joint. The surgery will restore normal alignment and relieve the pain. If you suffer from bunion deformity, talk to your podiatrist today to see what the best treatment option for you is.
Next month: Part two will provide information on symptoms and treatment of hammer toe.
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| Contact Information |
Dr. Edwin Oghoorian, DPM, is board-certified in podiatry. His private practice is at 210 S. Grand Ave., Suite 307 in Glendora and he can be reached by phone at 626/914-4099.
For more information about Dr. Oghoorian or other fine physicians who have medical staff privileges at Foothill Presbyterian Hospital, call The Doctor Connection at 888/456-CVHP or visit The Doctor Connection on the web.
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