Bunions are bulges that occur when the joint at the base of your big toe is misaligned. When pressure gets applied to the side of your big toe it can be moved awkwardly over, under, inwards or towards your other toes. Bunions happen when the pressures of shifting and bearing your weight unevenly falls on tendons and joints in your feet. The tissue around your joint gets tender and swollen, which causes it to become unstable. The angle increases between the two lower bones of the big toe. Over time the joint becomes reformed and hardened to where it can extend beyond the normal shape of the foot.
What Causes A Bunion?
The chief cause of bunions stems from genetics and the abnormal motion of your feet. Some podiatrists believe that footwear, like high heels or stilettos, can bring about bunions. Other podiatrists conclude that with adequate shoes, people are able to continue along with bunions pain-free unless they become arthritic. People may go up a size or more with their shoe due to the pain and width of the bunion. Without treatment, the bunion can begin to hurt even without shoes, and can become an issue with the forefoot.
Bunions are not merely a concern of the elderly. Bunions can develop at a far earlier age, sometimes in the 20's. The issue has even been seen in kids. Woman tend to experience bunion pain more so than men.
What Signs Should I Look For?
- irritated skin around the bunion
- joint pain and redness
- pain when walking
- a big toe shifts toward the other toes
- blisters around the bunion area
What Are My Treatment Options For Bunions?
The good news is, bunions are very treatable. Some things that can help your bunion are better fitting shoes, ice, rest, medications, and orthotics. Orthotics are devices that provide padding and shielding, which can help alleviate the pain of a bunion. These devices can be purchased over-the-counter, and include splints, regulators, and gelled toe spacers. If the pain is chronic, bunion surgery may be recommended by your Alexandria, VA podiatrist to realign your bone and fix the alignment between nearby tendons and ligaments. Bunion surgery can be performed at any age, but care and attention in younger patients will be taken to not disturb growth plates.
Dr. Ross is a board-certified podiatrist in the Alexandria area. He can help you determine the best treatment option for your bunion. You can contact The Podiatry Center at (703) 451-2977 to schedule your initial appointment today.
Read more about bunions here.
This information is not meant as medical advice. It is provided solely for education. Our practice would be pleased to discuss your unique circumstances and needs as they relate to these topics.
The Podiatry Center
Alexandria VA's Favorite Podiatrist Specializing In Bunion Treatment
The Podiatry Centers treat all medical and surgical foot pain and ankle pain conditions, including bunions. Licensed Alexandria VA area podiatrist, Dr. Paul Ross can help bring you foot pain and ankle pain relief.
Our podiatry office near Alexandria, VA offers the most effective and state-of-the-art, quality podiatry care services with a smile to patients in our local community, including: Alexandria VA, Bethesda MD, Springfield VA, Woodbridge VA, Annandale VA, Arlington VA, Burke VA, Gaithersburg MD, Potomac MD, Silver Spring MD, Rockville MD and Chevy Chase MD.
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