Bunion Surgery Birmingham, AL
You may be familiar with bunions if the condition runs in your family. What you may not know is this ossified bump at the base of the big toe can be more than a cosmetic nuisance. Aside from aesthetics, bunions can be a source of pain, and discomfort, and even limit mobility.
If you've noticed a hard growth on the side of or other irregularities around your big toe, then we have a lot to discuss.
- What Is a Bunion?
- What Causes Bunions?
- Bunion Symptoms
- How Do We Diagnose a Bunion?
- Treatment and Orthotic Devices
- When Do You Need Bunion Surgery?
- Are There Potential Risks?
- How Long Does It Take to Recover After Bunion Surgery?
What Is a Bunion?
A bunion (hallux valgus) is a structural deformity of the foot's framework. The joint that connects the big toe with the rest of the foot becomes partially dislocated and begins to drift to the side. As a result, the big toe gets pulled towards the smaller toes while the joint begins to stick out.
The bump at the side of the foot is a consequence of this dislocation, as well as soft tissue development in the area. Fortunately, bunion formation is a drawn-out process that usually takes years, giving you plenty of time to react.
However, even though bunions are one of the most common foot conditions, many people still consider them a mere cosmetic flaw. The majority of our patients only take note at later stages when the ailment begins to affect their quality of life. The good news is there's a lot to be done even then.
What Causes Bunions?
The exact reason for bunion formation remains elusive. Over the years of providing podiatric services, we've observed different causes:
- Genetics. Bunions run in certain families suggesting a genetic component to the condition.
- Foot and ankle problems can lead to joint dislocation and kickstart the process.
- Other foot deformities present at birth, such as flat feet can put additional pressure on the big toe and gradually subluxate the joint.
A more detailed examination would give us a better idea of your particular case. Don't hesitate to make an appointment.
Risk Factors
Certain factors increase the chance of developing bunions at some point in your life:
- Tight or narrow shoes. It's unclear whether shoes merely contribute to the development of the ailment or cause it. One thing is for certain—wearing these types of shoes is a risk factor.
- High heels often put toes into unnatural positions and press them together, causing undue stress.
- Women are at a much higher risk of developing bunions than men.
- Age. People older than 65 are significantly more likely to develop bunions.
- Sports and other activities. Spending long periods of time on your feet makes it more likely you'll have this problem at one point.
- Other foot or ankle conditions. Injuries and nerve disorders, such as tarsal tunnel syndrome or plantar fasciitis also may contribute to bunion development.
In some cases, slight lifestyle or footwear alterations are enough to slow down the development of the condition.
Symptoms
Bunion symptoms are difficult to miss. They include:
- A growing bump on the side of your foot at the base of your big toe
- The big toe slowly turns towards the second toe
- If the area gets inflamed, you can expect redness, soreness, and pain
- Pain may be present as a result of shoes pressing on the joints
- Calluses and corns
The presence of pain and inflammation point to a more severe case that warrants a visit to your podiatrist, especially if you have diabetes.
How Do We Diagnose a Bunion?
Diagnosing a bunion is an easy process for a full-time podiatrist with extensive experience. Since the symptoms are pretty obvious, a physical examination is enough in most cases.
Your doctor may order an X-ray of the area to determine the severity of the condition. An X-ray would show exactly how much the joint has drifted to the side and at what angle. Musculoskeletal radiologists may be consulted for a second opinion.
Treatment and Orthotic Devices
If bunions are caught in time, we recommend trying non-operative treatment:
- Wider footwear. Shoes with a wider toe box put a lot less pressure on the toes and can alleviate some of the symptoms, as well as slow the progression of the condition.
- Additional soft padding. A layer of soft padding can be another great way to reduce pressure on the bunions.
- Lifestyle changes. If you're spending a lot of time on your feet (standing, walking, running), you may need to alter your routine to give your feet proper rest.
- Orthotics. Depending on the severity of your condition, certain orthotic devices, such as spacers, can help.
You may be tempted to use OTC medication, such as ibuprofen to treat the pain and inflammation. While this may give you short-term relief, it won't treat your underlying condition. If you're feeling pain or seeing signs of inflammation, it's best to schedule an appointment with your podiatrist, performing an examination as soon as you can.
