What are bunions?
A bunion is an outward bulge at the base of your big toe. It develops when your toes are frequently pressed together, causing the joint of your big toe to shift and the lower part of the bone to bulge out to the side.
Over time, bunions can cause permanent changes to the joints in your foot leading to pain, calluses, and corns.
Bunions are a common issue and tend to affect women more than men, though anyone can get them. In some cases, bunions are genetic so if you have a parent or close relative with bunions, you may be at risk of developing them yourself.
What causes bunions?
Bunions develop when the toes are regularly pressed together. This mostly occurs when you have a history of wearing tight-fitting shoes, like high heels or shoes with pointed toes.
Other foot problems, like hammertoes, high arches, and flat feet can increase the strain on your feet and may predispose you to developing bunions.
How can I stop my bunion from getting worse?
If you're concerned about your bunion or experiencing pain when wearing shoes, it's best to see Dr. Shwer for an exam and personalized recommendations.
Dr. Shwer can help you determine which shoes are best for your feet to reduce irritation of your bunion. Your shoes should fit comfortably without being too tight around the toes and instead have a wider toe box.
Since bunions can cause calluses and corns, it’s important to get those taken care of at the office as well. Dr. Shwer doesn't recommend shaving or filing thick calluses or applying over-the-counter products to corns.
These treatments can cause trauma to sensitive skin and increase your risk of infection. Instead, soak your feet in warm water to soften your skin then apply a moisturizer to your skin.
Stretching your feet and ankles by making small circles with your feet and wiggling your toes can relax tight muscles in the area. Dr. Shwer can help you with additional stretches and exercises as needed.
When should I see a podiatrist about my bunion?
You should visit Dr. Shwer as soon as you begin experiencing pain from your bunion or if you're concerned about the appearance of your feet. Dr. Shwer evaluates the severity of your bunion by performing a thorough exam and in some cases takes X-rays.
Based on your exam, Dr. Shwer provides appropriate treatment recommendations including conservative management and surgical options, as desired.
To get treatment for your bunion, call the office or schedule a visit online now.
