Bunion treatment varies according to the individual's age, overall health, and degree of impairment. Left untreated, bunions get worse over time and can become extremely painful. They aren't contagious, however there's evidence that genetics play a role in who will develop them. They generally are not caused by wearing shoes with high heels or pointed toes, although the wrong footwear will cause them to worsen more rapidly.
The big toe, medically known as hallux, becomes misaligned and twists toward the other toes. The angle, or valgus, causes the joint to protrude sideways, forming a bump. The deviation results in painful swelling and tenderness. The area may become more susceptible to blisters, along with decreased ability to flex the toes, and arthritis. Eventually the whole foot aches.
A variety of home remedies exist, especially placing ice on the bump, however it's a good idea to see a foot specialist at the beginning. Bunions aren't curable, but podiatrists have a range of treatments that can slow their growth. Prescription splints or special orthotic devices are effective in keeping the toe in good alignment.
Usually the first piece of advice is to wear different shoes which, along with custom-fitted orthotic devices, shifts the position of the foot and relieves pressure. Padding and cushions, OTC or prescribed, help many sufferers. Keeping weight off the foot also lessens pain and swelling.
Other individuals find aspirin or other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory remedies helpful. Wearing socks can reduce friction, but only if they aren't made from cotton. If the swelling is severe, corticosteriod injections can provide relief. Surgery is usually done only as a last resort.
The purpose of surgery is to realign the bones in the big toe. Sometimes a screw is inserted to help keep the toe in place. The best bunion treatment is the one that relieves pain, slows the progression, and fits an individual's lifestyle.
The big toe, medically known as hallux, becomes misaligned and twists toward the other toes. The angle, or valgus, causes the joint to protrude sideways, forming a bump. The deviation results in painful swelling and tenderness. The area may become more susceptible to blisters, along with decreased ability to flex the toes, and arthritis. Eventually the whole foot aches.
A variety of home remedies exist, especially placing ice on the bump, however it's a good idea to see a foot specialist at the beginning. Bunions aren't curable, but podiatrists have a range of treatments that can slow their growth. Prescription splints or special orthotic devices are effective in keeping the toe in good alignment.
Usually the first piece of advice is to wear different shoes which, along with custom-fitted orthotic devices, shifts the position of the foot and relieves pressure. Padding and cushions, OTC or prescribed, help many sufferers. Keeping weight off the foot also lessens pain and swelling.
Other individuals find aspirin or other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory remedies helpful. Wearing socks can reduce friction, but only if they aren't made from cotton. If the swelling is severe, corticosteriod injections can provide relief. Surgery is usually done only as a last resort.
The purpose of surgery is to realign the bones in the big toe. Sometimes a screw is inserted to help keep the toe in place. The best bunion treatment is the one that relieves pain, slows the progression, and fits an individual's lifestyle.