Bunion Treatment Los Angeles
Information from The American Podiatric Medical Association and podiatrist Dr. Jamshidinia.
What Is a Bunion?
A bunion is an enlargement of the joint at the base of the big toe–the metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint – that forms when the bone or tissue at the big toe joint moves out of place. This forces the toe to bend toward the others, causing an often painful lump of bone on the foot. Since this joint carries a lot of the body´s weight while walking, the deformity can cause extreme pain if left untreated. The MTP joint itself may become stiff and sore, making even the wearing of shoes difficult or impossible. Bunions – from the Latin “bunio,” meaning enlargement – can also occur on the outside of the foot along the little toe, where it is called a “bunionette” or “Tailor’s bunion.” Thankfully there are a number of treatment options including bunion removal surgery that can help you get back on your feet.
Symptoms
- Development of a firm bump on the outside edge of the foot, at the base of the big toe
- Redness, swelling, or pain at or near the MTP joint
- Corns or other irritations caused by the overlap of the first and second toes
- Restricted or painful motion of the big toe
How Do You Get a Bunion?
Bunions form when the normal balance of forces that is exerted on the joints and tendons of the foot becomes disrupted. This can lead to instability in the joint and cause the deformity. They are brought about by years of abnormal motion and pressure over the MTP joint. They are, therefore, a symptom of faulty foot development and are usually caused by the way we walk, our inherited foot type, our shoes, or other sources.
Although they tend to run in families, it is the foot type that is passed down, not the bunion. Parents who suffer from poor foot mechanics can pass their problematic foot type on to their children, who, in turn, are also prone to developing similar foot problems. The abnormal functioning caused by this faulty foot development can lead to pressure being exerted on and within the foot, often resulting in bone and joint deformities such as bunions and hammertoes.
Other causes are foot injuries, neuromuscular disorders, or congenital deformities. People who suffer from flat feet or low arches are also prone to developing these problems, as are arthritic patients and those with inflammatory joint disease. Occupations that place undue stress on the feet are also a factor; ballet dancers, for instance, often develop the condition.
Wearing shoes that are too tight or cause the toes to be squeezed together is also a common factor, one that explains the high prevalence of the disorder among women.
Bunion Treatment & Removal Options
Find Pain Relief with At-Home Bunion Treatment
At-home bunion treatment includes applying a commercial, non-medicated pad around the bony prominence. Podiatrist also recommend to wear shoes with a wide and deep toe box as a standard non surgical bunion treatment. If it becomes inflamed and painful, apply ice packs several times a day to reduce swelling. Avoid high-heeled shoes over two inches tall. See your podiatrist if pain persists.
Conservative Bunion Treatment
Treatment options vary with the type and severity of each case, although identifying the deformity early in its development is important in avoiding surgery. Podiatric medical attention should be sought at the first indication of pain or discomfort because, if left untreated, bunions tend to get larger and more painful, making nonsurgical treatment less of an option.
The primary goal of most early bunion treatment options is to relieve pressure and halt the progression of the joint deformity. A podiatrist may recommend these treatments:
Padding & Taping
Often the first step in a treatment plan, padding the affected area minimizes pain and allows the patient to continue a normal, active life. Taping helps keep the foot in a normal position, thus reducing stress and pain.
Medication
Anti-inflammatory drugs and cortisone injections are often prescribed to ease the acute pain and inflammations caused by joint deformities.
Physical Therapy
Often used to provide relief of the inflammation and from bunion pain, physical therapy is offered by many podiatry offices. Ultrasound therapy is also a popular technique for treating bunions and their associated soft tissue involvement.
Orthotics
Shoe inserts may be useful in controlling foot function and may reduce symptoms and prevent worsening of the deformity.
When early treatments fail or the deformity progresses past the threshold for such options, bunion removal surgery may become necessary to relieve pressure and repair the toe joint.
Surgical Treatment Options
Several surgical procedures are available to the podiatrist. The surgery will remove the bony enlargement, restore the normal alignment of the toe joint, and relieve pain. A simple bunionectomy, in which only the bony prominence is removed, may be used for the less severe deformity. Severe bunions may require a more involved procedure, which includes cutting the bone and realigning the joint.
Recuperation takes time, and swelling and some discomfort are common for several weeks following surgery. Pain, however, is easily managed with medications prescribed by your podiatrist.
Call us at 310 579 2080 (WALK) to schedule a consultation or for specific questions.
