A very large percentage of people who develop bunions are women. In fact, it is estimated that approximately 50% of women in the United States will develop bunions, with that number increasing to 67% when women over the age of 65 are considered as a group. Talking to a bunion doctor should, therefore, be an important consideration for anyone with the telltale signs of bunions.
What to Look For
The most common issues that bring people into a bunion doctor are extreme pain and swelling in the joint of the big toe, where it connects to the foot. The correct medical term for a bunion is Hallux Valgus, and it is a progressive condition, not something that will simply appear overnight.
The most common signs of a bunion are pain and swelling of the area inside of the foot, at the big toe joint. In a normal foot this area will be flat and straight, with the big toe exiting the foot and remaining in a straight line from the joint.
By the time most people get to a bunion doctor, this joint is grossly inflamed and is often structurally altered. This is due to constant pressure on the joint and the big toe being pushed over into the other toes because of shoes that are too poiny or too small.
With this change in structure, the big toe will cut over into the other toes and will not straighten. The joint will be stiff, immobile and very painful, and it can change your gait and the biomechanics of your foot movement.
The Causes
While shoes are a problem, your bunion doctor may also talk to you about the shape and structure of your foot. Bunions are more common in some families than others, but even with genetic factors the choice of incorrectly fitting shoes is still the most important factor.
The Treatment
The earlier you visit the bunion doctor, the less likely it is that you will need surgery to correct the problem. It is important to be open and honest and explain the pain and problems you are experiencing accurately.
In many cases, with early detection, your bunion doctor will recommend changing the style of shoes to lower heels with a wider toe box, as well as possibly using orthotics to remove the pressure until the inflammation is treated. In severe cases or where joint damage has occurred, surgery may be required to correct the misalignment of the toe.
If you are suffering with foot pain in the big toe joint, come in and see our bunion doctor at Suburban Orthopaedics. To learn more about treatment options or to schedule an appointment, go to www.suburbanortho.com.
