What You Should Know About Bunions

What are Bunions?

A bunion is a bump that appears on the inside of the foot near the joint closest to the big toe. The bump protrudes toward the inside of the big toe. If left untreated it can cause severe pain and even affect walking. Bunions are primarily caused by wearing poor shoes or it may be passed down in ones genes.

Bunions may seriously affect the way one walks and the general function of the foot may be altered.

Possible Causes

• Flat feet / low arches
• Narrow footwear
• Foot injury / trauma
• Inflammatory arthritis
• Genetic disorder
• Neuromuscular conditions

Treatment

• Shoe choice: Choose shoes with wide insteps, broad toes, and soft soles while avoiding shoes that are narrow, tight, or sharply pointed.
• Custom orthotics: In order to relieve pressure from the affected areas, your doctor may recommend custom shoe inserts.
• Forefoot products: Products like a bunion shield, night splint or bunion bandage may be prescribed to treat bunions.
• Surgery: In more serious and severe cases surgery may be recommended

Do you have a bunion that is causing you serious pain? Call the office at (301) 441 – 2655 to make an appointment to get your feet checked.