How Do I Get Rid of My Bunion?


 

The first thing to understand about bunions is what they look like. Many individuals believe that a bulge on the top of the foot is a bunion. However, a bunion is a bulge on the inner side of the foot near the base of the big toe. Here's what you need to know.

Why do I have a bunion?

Bunions are typically inherited, so getting one is beyond your control. They are usually passed down from moms to daughters.

You cannot prevent bunions, but you can take steps to avoid aggravating them. Many people live peacefully with bunions that cause no pain for years. However, as they become more obvious, you may notice pain and swelling as your foot rubs awkwardly inside your shoe. As the bunion progresses, your big toe will tip inward toward the lesser toes.

Comfortable footwear could reduce bunion aggravation

Bunions are quite rare among societies that do not wear shoes. While there is insufficient evidence to conclude that footwear causes bunions, it is apparent that footwear is the most significant contributing factor to the development of a bunion. It is critical to wear shoes that don't bunch your toes together. This includes avoiding high heels and shoes with a narrow toe base. Choose comfortable shoes that fit comfortably but allow your toes to expand slightly. If you must wear heels, choose a low one or a wedge with a broad-toe foundation. This is especially crucial if you have flat feet, as bunions appear to progress faster in flat-footed persons; employ arch support and keep a constant check on your bunion's progress.

The alternative isn’t pretty

Wearing the latest clothes may seem like the most important thing right now, but a bunion can develop into a bothersome and painful foot deformity. As the bunion pulls your big toe inwards towards the lesser toes (a condition known as hallux valgus), it loses power. In a healthy foot, the big toe bears up to 50% of the stress; however, when the foot's structure decreases, the second toe attempts to compensate. Unfortunately, it is not up to the task. The end outcome is frequently a 'hammer' or 'claw' toe, in which one or more lesser toes begin to thrust into the air.

When to get your bunion looked at

When you detect difficulties with the rest of your foot, it is best to get professional help. An x-ray will be performed to assess the severity of your bunion. For smaller bunions, insoles and appropriate footwear are the best options. There are toe spreaders or 'bunion guards' available, but they are not always effective. If your condition worsens, you may be advised to have surgery.

Treatment to get rid of bunions

A bunionectomy involves more than just removing the bunion. The bony bunion is removed, and the tight, soft tissue that grips the bones is freed. The foot doctor then breaks the bones, realigns them, and binds them with metal (screw or staple) to promote healing.

Patients are often on crutches for two or three days after the treatment before being able to walk alone using a special protective shoe. The shoe is worn for the first six weeks of rehabilitation, and then the patient can resume wearing normal, comfortable shoes. Swelling can last for several months, so sports like running are normally out of the question until a full recovery occurs, which is usually three to four months after surgery.

It may appear to be a difficult task, but it pales in comparison to the issues created by bunions. If you have a little bunion, take care of your feet, and you may never require surgery. If you need surgery, rest assured that a professionally conducted operation has a high success rate. While the recovery period may slow you down, you'll be back on your feet in no time.

Medical Health