Those who work in the Podiatry field often see many different foot ailments, but few are as painful as bunions. This issue affects adults of almost any age and lifestyle, and the pain and discomfort can hinder walking. Although some bunions can be treated at home, they can grow more painful over time, and those who suffer from them may want to learn when to seek treatment from a foot specialist.
Bunions form when the bones in the foot shift out of place, which pushes the big toe inward, moving it toward the other toes of the foot. As the condition develops, the displacement can cause a bump to form at the base of the big toe. This resulting bunion can cause a number of problems that interfere with daily activities:
Not everyone experiences bunions. However, there are a few risk factors that may contribute to the formation of this condition.
Bunions can have several different origins, but one of the most common risk factors seems to be heredity. Young adults might form them early on if their parents struggle with the problem, and in some cases, the hereditary bone formation may contribute to the likelihood of developing bunions. Bone and joint issues that run in the family, such as arthritis, may also increase the chances of bunion growth. This may be especially true of rheumatoid arthritis, which can deform the joints in the feet.
Other Podiatry troubles, such as gout, might also cause bunions. Those who suffer from type 2 diabetes often face a number of foot-related problems, including bunions. Learning to spot the symptoms early on can help those dealing with this painful malady to seek treatment and find relief from the agony bunions can cause.
The bump that forms at the base of the big toe is often a tell-tale sign of a bunion. However, other symptoms may be present too, such as redness around the area of the bulge, shiny or reddish skin that covers the bump and increased discomfort while walking. Bunion pain may wax and wane with time, but when these symptoms grow worse, it can indicate the need to seek help before the foot becomes crippled.
While bunions often cause occasional discomfort, those who experience them may want to visit a podiatrist when the pain becomes consistent or interferes with everyday activities. For example, when a bunion becomes so inflamed that putting on a shoe is painful and walking seems impossible, treatment beyond over-the-counter cures becomes necessary. Deformation or limited movement of the big toe can also be a cause for concern and may require a visit to a podiatrist.
Visiting a Podiatry clinic can help those afflicted with bunions find relief from pain and discomfort. Treatment may increase the ability to walk longer distances, help shoes fit more comfortably and provide long-term care for the future health of the patient's feet.
Request an appointment here: https://footdoctorinsanjose.com or call Leonard Greenwald, D.P.M. at (408) 827-9483 for an appointment in our San Jose office.
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