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What is a Bunion?

A bunion is a bone deformity caused by the expansion of the joint at the base and side of the large toe. It is a localized area of enlargement or the prominence of the inner part of the joint at the base of the large toe. In fact, enlargement represents a misalignment of the large toe joint (metatarsal phalangeal joint) and, in some cases, additional bone formation.

Often people with bunions suffer from physical discomfort due to the intense scratching, rubbing and pressure of the enlargement on their feet. The skin on the foot turns red and soft. Since this joint flexes with each move, the bigger the bunion becomes, the more it hurts to walk. With time, bursitis or arthritis may develop, the skin on the bottom of the foot may grow smoother, and day-to-day walking can become difficult-all leading to chronic pain. Bunions can be caused by trauma, poor biomechanics, congenital deformities or can even be inherited.

Preventive Treatment for Bunions

Some preventative measures that you can take are mentioned below:

Avoid injury or trauma

Apply cold compresses

Wear a shoe with good supports and a wide toe box

Soak the foot in lukewarm water to help relieve pain

How Can a Podiatrist Help You?

Here’s how a podiatrist can help you:

Perform a physical examination

Request X-ray, bone scan, CT, MRI or other imaging studies

Determine if there is an underlying biomechanical problem associated with your condition so that once treated, the chance of getting bunions again is minimized

Prescribe custom, functional orthotics if your problem is biomechanical in nature. This is often necessary so that following surgery the likelihood of recurrence is minimized.

Perform surgery, utilizing advanced procedures to minimize recovery time and pain.

What Causes Corns?

Corns and calluses are structures of small, dead skin cells. They are caused by excessive pressure of skin rubbing against bone areas or by an irregularity in a foot. Corns usually develop on the toes and cause calluses on the soles due to friction and pressure, which can be uncomfortable. Moleskin or padding in the affected areas can ease the issue. Corns and calluses can also arise where there is a biomechanical foot problem.

It is advisable to not cut corn or calluses with any instrument and to not administer home remedies except as directed by the podiatrist.