Understanding Your Bunion Treatment Options

A bunion is a common foot deformity which is caused by an enlargement of the joint connecting the metatarsal of the foot to the first phalange of the big toe. This deformity can be extremely painful. As this problem worsens, damage can be caused to the entire foot. There is also commonly swelling of the side of the producing a large bony lump.

The lump can increase in size if it is not taken care of, and can cause arthritis or stiffness of the joint. Walking can also become difficult because posture will deteriorate. It may also lead to bursitis, which is the swelling of the watery sac in the joint.

Bunions are caused by the joint of the big toe being placing under unnatural stresses, especially from wearing tight shoes. Wearing high heeled an tight shoes will increase your chance of developing bunions. Bunions can also be linked to hereditary. Being on your feet for long amounts of time everyday can also increase your chances of getting a bunion.

Hammertoes, wherein the big toe begins to push the other toes, can occur if bunions are left untreated. Also, calluses and corns can also form on high pressure areas of the foot.

Bunion treatment is commonly non-invasive, if the condition has not had time to progress. Switching to flexible and supportive shoes often helps.

A physician will be able to help with reducing the swelling and any inflammation. For severe cases, they may give you medicine, although over the counter pain relievers often work well.

Bunion treatment for realigning the foot bones works best while you are sleeping. While you sleep, splints will help straighten the bones.

Bunion shields can be worn to protect the bunion while you are active, and can help guard against damage, and are valuable in combination with bunion pads.
Gently exercising the foot is also useful to keep the movement of the joints and muscles to a maximum and to facilitate healing. You should only do this if you doctor approves it.

Typically surgery is unnecessary to alleviate the problem and to improve the health of the feet. In critical cases though, surgery is the only way to realign the bones of the foot. Surgery is not always 100% effective, so is considered only for severe cases, and when other options have been proved to be unsuccessful.

For additional information on treatment for bunions, please visit bunion surgery recovery.