BUNIONS: What are Bunions and How Can a Podiatrist Assist?

What are Bunions?

Bunions are a common problem that we frequently see in our clinic, mostly due to discomfort in the bunion, or thinks the toe is unattractive.

A bunion is typically described as the bony bump that is located on the outside of the big toe. The visible bump is a reflection of variations in bony foot's structure. The medical term used to describe the bunion is called 'Hallux abducto Valgus' (HAV). The word refers to the position of the toe as it begins to rotate inwards, and eventually shift towards the lower toes, resulting in a larger forefoot.

Why did Bunions develop?

A bunion is formed when there is an increase in pressure and force put on the toe's big joint. The most common causes are:

• Hereditary causes (by far the most significant factor)
• Long-term use of shoes that aren't wide enough
• Biomechanical elements
• Arthritis of the feet

The most prevalent cause is genetics. If you've noticed an unnatural bunion on your parents' feet, or even your grandparent's feet, then you are more likely to develop it! Although it's the primary cause is usually the result of a mix of different factors too.

The third most important aspect is the footwear. If you think of your foot in a shoe that is tight fitting that causes it to become constrained and tense in a situation where the toes are squeezed together, while the joint of your big toe is naturally sticking out. Eventually, this will result in a change that is more permanent in the joint, which causes the toe's big one to shift towards the second toe and the other toes to be clawed.

The signs, symptoms, and development of bunions

Although bunions aren't always symptoms, they are a condition that progresses, meaning they get worse over time. They are usually triggered by an occasional lean on the large toe in the second toe. Common signs and symptoms are:

• A bony bump that develops on the inside or at the top of the toe's big one that can turn swelling and red.
• Loss of joint stiffness and loss motion in the joint
• A aching, deep pain in the joint, which gets worse when you wear shoes.
• The difficulty of fitting shoes
• Most common in women
• The 2nd toe begins to lose its shape

The stages of bunions are categorized into Bunions.

• First Stage (mild)
• Stage 2 (moderate)
• 3. Stage (severe)

The pain can be experienced at any point but the most advanced stages are often caused by pain and difficulty finding a suitable shoe. As you might imagine, as the big toe gets towards the second toe, the bump gets larger and more painful, and the options for footwear are more difficult. Other problems with the forefoot also become more frequent since the smaller toes get affected as well.

The Role of a Podiatrist in Bunion Management

A podiatrist's job is to help manage the bunion. The podiatrist will evaluate your bunion, gait, foot, and as well as the seriousness of your problem and then go through the non-surgical, conservative treatment options.

A few of the most commonly used treatments for bunions in Perth are:

• Custom orthotics help relieve areas that are working and overloaded, they help align the foot and prevent the toe from drifting into the side.
• Exercises that help increase the strength of the smaller muscles surrounding the joint.
• Advice on footwear - evaluate your footwear and provide the right advice to limit the progression of your bunion and ease discomfort
• Joint mobilization is the process of using hands-on therapy to improve the joint's mobility.

If the pain continues and you've exhausted all treatment options It's possible that your **podiatrist **recommend a surgical evaluation.

Bunions are a frequent complaint that is seen at our office. If you're experiencing discomfort or are concerned regarding your feet, and you don't wish to risk causing your bunion to get any worse you can contact us via The Foot Focus Podiatry in Perth as we are able to fully analyze your problem and help you discover the best solution.