Bunions

Bunions grow at the base of the big toe where it connects to your foot. Bunions are bony growths that can cause you to limp, which in turn can result in backache and leg pain. Bunions affect millions of people, so if you have one or two, you are in good company.

Bunions are caused by a deformation of the joint at the base of the big toe. When the joint deforms the big toe gets pushed excessively towards the second toe. Unfortunately, the problem tends to get progressively worse over time as the tendons cease to pull the toe in a straight line.

Bunions can make it hard to get your feet into shoes, particularly if the big toe crosses over the second toe. Your foot will adapt to the bunion growth by protecting itself, sometimes forming a sac of fluid, or developing hard skin where the bunion rubs against shoes. 

Women tend to suffer more from bunions which, like many other foot problems, can be caused by ill-fitting shoes, but you’re also more likely to suffer with the condition if your parents or grandparents have them. Bunions can also grow when people have osteo or rheumatoid arthritis.

If you think you are developing a bunion, or if you know you have one, don't ignore it. Seek professional, medical help.

TREATMENTS FOR BUNIONS

Depending on the severity of your bunion, Heath will be able to recommend exercises or special shoe insoles called orthotics that help prevent the problem from worsening. treatments like this will help reduce the growth of bunions and will alleviate pain but they won't change the shape of your foot.

In more serious circumstances surgery may be required by a podiatric surgeon to correct the cause of the bunion and prevent it growing back.