- Bunion is a condition that affects
the first metatarsal bone of the foot, otherwise known as
the big toe, in which certain structural changes occur, due
to improper foot care.
- The primary change is the formation
of a fleshy lump resulting from constant inward rotation of
the big toe, causing the base to turn outward and form a
visible bump around the toe joint.
- Typically, the big toe turns
inward, sliding under or over the smaller toes.
- Once the deformity has taken place,
constant friction and rubbing from shoes that no longer fit
properly (or may have been the cause of the deformity in the
first place) causes redness, swelling, and pain over the
bump.
- The cause is almost always due to
tight fitting shoes, but heredity, ligament laxity, and
trauma may also be risk factors.
- The treatment for bunions involves wearing special shoes that have a wide toe, high toe box with extra depth, rubber soles, and uppers made of soft material. Painkillers that reduce inflammation such as NSAIDs (e.g., Motrin, aspirin, etc.), foot
soaks, and massage also may help. Surgery is indicated if
all else fails.
- The elderly and those with diabetes, arthritis, poor circulation, and other chronic diseases should have routine foot checkups by a podiatrist or physician, and correct any foot problems like bunions, as soon as possible, in order to prevent future difficulties.
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