Hallux valgus, or what’s commonly called a bunion, is a large bony lump that protrudes from your big toe, and those that have experienced this condition know just how painful it can be. Ultimately, you’re likely going to need this condition surgically corrected, though there are measures that can be taken in the meantime to help ease the pain. If you’re suffering from bunions and even light walks have become overbearing, it’s time to see a podiatrist.
At Procare Podiatric Medicine and Surgery, bunion removal is just one of our specialities. We’ve helped countless numbers of people eliminate bunions and return to their normal quality of life. But just how are bunions caused? And how can your pain be alleviated until you can begin surgery?
What Causes Bunions?
Bunions can arise over time due to a multitude of reasons, and it often simply comes down to genetics. In addition, more women are affected by bunions than men, likely due to the fact they can be caused by wearing high heels which put extra strain on your feet. Other common causes for bunions include:
- The way you move. Bunions often form over time if your foot rolls inwards as you walk.
- You might develop bunions because they run in your family, though you’re not certain to develop them if this is the case.
- They can arise or be worsened by other medical conditions that affect your joints, such as arthritis, rheumatoid or even a foot injury.
Depending on exactly how your bunions formed will affect the type of treatment you require and how the surgical procedure should be carried out. That’s just one reason you should visit one of our experts at Procare to properly diagnose and treat the condition.
How Can You Ease the Pain?
As aforementioned, you will almost certainly require bunion surgery to get rid of the condition, and you might need treatment for other areas such as feet and ankles that may have been affected by the condition. However, you can take the following steps to alleviate the pain, all of which will be explained in detail by one of our professional podiatrists.
- Make sure you wear low-heeled, comfortable shoes that fit you properly.
- Cover your bunions with a gel-filled pad made specifically for medical purposes.
- You might be able to alleviate at least some of the foot pain by taking anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen that have few side effects for most people (it’s always best to speak to one of our podiatrists before taking any medication).
- Ice packs, massages and hot soaks may offer you some relief.
When it’s Time to Visit a Professional
We’d advise visiting one of our experts as soon as your bunions begin to form. The longer bunions are left untreated, the more painful they will become. At Procare, our podiatrists are trained to the highest standards in the industry. When you need pain relief and effective treatment, we are here to help. Get in touch with us now to find out how we can assist you.
