Is Surgery the Only Option for Bunions?
What Are Bunions?
Bunions are bony protrusions on the bottom
of the big toe. It is formed when the bones of the big toe and the front of the
foot get misaligned. It causes the joint to stick out at an awkward angle.
Why Do They Manifest?
Bunions can be a genetic problem and can be seen
as a slight deformity in younger people. They can worsen as they grow older. In
adults, bunions can form due to tight fitting shoes. Arthritis is another
reason for the formation of bunions.
How Do You Know if You Have
Bunions?
Enlarged bunions can be extremely painful and
may limit the movement of the big toe. An emerging bunion can cause corns or
calluses due to the friction between the protrusion and your footwear. Bunions
can also manifest as a swelling on the base of the big toe. It is better to see
a doctor during the early stages and get it treated before it affects your
movement or causes pain.
Treatment for Bunions
If treated in the early stages, non-surgical procedures may help
relieve the symptoms of a bunion. This could include wearing padding over the
bunions, medications and topical creams, icing and insoles. If it is severe,
the podiatrist may suggest shoe inserts, corrective shoes or other orthotic
devices to help provide relief.
When Is Surgery an Option?
Surgery may be considered
only if alternative treatments do not help in relieving the pain or if the
bunion affects your movement. Surgical options include:
· Removing swollen tissue from around the base of
the big toe.
· Straightening the big toe by removing the
protruding bone.
· Realigning the bones of the big toe and the
front of the foot.
· Joining the bones of the affected area
permanently.
As recovery after surgery
will take time and rehabilitation is necessary, the podiatrist will use surgery
as the last resort in the case of bunions.
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