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It's no surprise that our feet often hurt considering that an average day of walking exerts a force on the feet that's equal to several hundred tons. All that rushing around makes our feet more prone to injury than any other part of the body. Your feet mirror your general health. Conditions such as arthritis, diabetes, nerve and circulatory disorders can show their initial symptoms in the feet - so foot ailments can be your first sign of more serious medical problems.

Studies show that 3 out of 4 Americans experience serious foot problems in their lifetime. Despite the millions of aching feet out there, many of us don't seek the medical attention we need for relief. Foot pain is never normal, and you shouldn't be resigned to teetering around on sore feet.

The conditions listed below and to the left are some of the most common foot ailments. No matter what causes your feet to ache, we can help.

The "foot conditions" section of this Web site is maintained to provide general information about foot health. The materials, information, and answers provided by and through this Web site are not intended to replace or to be a substitute for medical advice provided by a qualified physician or other appropriate health care professional based on individual patient evaluation. You should consult with our practice or other appropriate health care professional on specific medical questions, including matters requiring diagnosis, treatment, therapy or medical attention. click here for New Patient Form





Bunions (Bunionettes)

Bunions

Definition

Bunions, referred to in the medical community as Hallux Valgus, are one of the most common forefoot problems.  A bunion is a prominent bump on the inside of the foot around the big toe joint.  This bump is actually a bone protruding towards the inside of the foot.  With the continued movement of the big toe towards the smaller toes, it is common to find the big toe resting under or over the second toe.  This causes a common forefoot condition called overlapping toes.  Some of the symptoms of bunions include inflammation, swelling, and soreness on the side surface of the big toe.  The discomfort commonly causes a patient to walk improperly.

Another type of bunion which some individuals experience is called a Tailor’s Bunion, also known as a Bunionette.  This forms on the outside of the foot towards the joint at the little toe.  It is a smaller bump that forms due to the little toe moving inwards, towards the big toe.

Cause

Bunions are a common problem experienced mostly by women.  The deformity can develop from an abnormality in foot function, or arthritis, but is more commonly caused by wearing improper fitting footwear.  Tight, narrow dress shoes with a constrictive toe box (toe area) can cause the foot to begin to take the shape of the shoe, leading to the formation of a bunion.  Women who have bunions normally wear dress shoes that are too small for their feet.  Their toes are squeezed together in their shoes causing the first metatarsal bone to protrude on the side of the foot.

It is important for men and women to realize that wearing dress shoes and boots, which are tapered in the toe area, can cause the bunion to worsen to the point where surgery is necessary.

Treatment & Prevention

In the early stages of the formation of a bunion, soaking feet in warm water can provide temporary relief.  The best way to alleviate the pain associated with bunions is to wear properly fitting shoes.  Shoes designed with a high, wide toe box (toe area) are recommended for people suffering from forefoot disorders, such as bunions.  Shoes with rocker soles will unload pressure to the bunion area.  Orthotics are also recommended for this condition to provide extra comfort, support, and protection.

Other conservative treatments include using forefoot products designed to accommodate and relieve bunions such as bunion shields, bunion night splints, and bunion bandages.  These conservative treatments can limit the progression of the bunion formation, relieve pain and provide a healthy environment for the foot.

If the problem persists, please call us to schedule an appointment.



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