Foot Pain Solution

By Evetta L. Borden, DPM

The Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Center

. http://www.footankledc.com

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Foot Pain Solution

Bunion Treatment Reaps Dramatic Results

A bunion, often called “a bump on the side of the foot” is a common foot problem. It is a result of Hallux valgus, a Latin term meaning the “turning outward” of the big toe joint. This happens when the big toe turns outwards towards the other toes, forcing them to crowd together. It is often very painful.

What causes bunions?

By far the most common cause of bunions is shoes that dont fit properly. Women are more prone to developing them than men. Wearing tight, poorly fitting shoes like high-heeled or pointed shoes can lead to bunions. These shoes gradually push the foot bones into an unnatural shape. Bunions can also be caused by diseases like arthritis or polio and even family history.

What can I do to prevent my bunions from getting worse?

Bunions can become painful, but with proper preventive care, may never become a problem. Surgery is only recommended when nothing else stops the pain.

Tips for preventative care

Wear shoes that fit properly and dont compress the toes

Avoid activities that cause bunion pain, including standing for long periods of time

Orthotic devices or cushioned pads may provide relief

Applying an ice pack to the sore area several times a day helps reduce inflammation and pain

Talk to your foot and ankle specialist. Together you can create a preventative treatment plan that best suits your needs.

Is Bunion Surgery For You?

Most bunions can be treated without surgery. But sometimes non- surgical treatments are not enough to relieve pain and correct deformities. Talk with your doctor. Your orthopedic surgeon can help you decide if surgery is the best option.

People decide to have bunion surgery when

Foot pain that is so severe it limits everyday activities, including walking and wearing reasonable shoes.

Inflammation and swelling does not improve with rest or medications.

Toes are so deformed you risk other problems.

Toes are so stiff you cant bend and straighten the toes.

Realistic expectations about bunion surgery

After bunion surgery most patients experience a reduction in pain and an improvement in the look of the foot. But remember, the main cause of the bunion deformity is a tight fitting shoe. Returning to a tight fitting shoe may cause the bunions to reappear.

Guide for Proper Shoe Fit

Before you buy, try them on. Judge the shoe by how it fits not the size or brand.

Do not purchase shoes that feel too tight, expecting them to “stretch out.”

The shoe should conform, as nearly as possible, to the shape ofthe foot

Measure both feet every year. Many people have one foot that is slightly larger than the other. Fit shoes to the larger foot.

Try on shoes at the end of the day when feet are the largest.

Stand during the fitting process.

There should be 3/8 to inch of space between the longest toe and the end of the shoe.

Walk around the store in the shoe to make sure it fits and feels right.

Adapted From The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons.