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Bunions are a common foot disease that affects your normal movement. Having a good knowledge of the treatment procedures helps to tackle it purposefully.
Around 6% of the Canadian population is suffering from different foot injuries like bunions, fallen arches, flat feet, etc. A bunion is a bony bump that forms on the joint at the base of the big toe. This is seen when some of the bones in the front part of your foot move out of their actual position.
A bunion is a common foot disease, but it is not so threatening. With the right treatment, this is somewhat manageable. Here, visiting a foot specialist in Montreal is a suitable option. This article discusses what you should do when you suffer from bunions.
Main Symptoms of Bunions
Before you find out how to manage bunions, you need to be aware of the symptoms. These include:
- Pain or stiffness in your big toe
- Swelling
- Redness
- Difficulty wearing certain shoes
You need to visit a podiatric clinic (clinique podiatrique) when you experience any symptoms.
What are the Top Causes of Bunions?
Here are the main causes of bunions.
- Poor footwear choice: Often, people wear tight or pointed-toe shoes. This forces the toes together, thereby exerting immense pressure on the joint. This results in bunions.
- Genetics: Foot structures might be inherited in certain cases. Here, the common considerations are low arches, flat feet, weak tendons, etc.
- Abnormal foot mechanics: The walking style of a person can be a reason behind getting bunions. If you have an improper style, you can get a foot disease.
- Occupation: Are you involved in a job that requires standing for a long time? If yes, you can get a bunion. This is because of the constant pressure on your feet for a long time.
How are Bunions Treated?
Bunions are mainly treated via non-surgical procedures. Let’s know the top ones that you might be recommended if you visit a foot specialist in Montreal.
Footwear Changes
Wearing the wrong shoes is one of the most common causes of getting bunions. Hence, you can treat it by changing your footwear. Consider wide shoes and those with deep toe boxes. If you prefer bringing any change to an existing shoe, you can rely on a stretching device.
Bunion Pads and Taping
Over-the-counter bunion pads cushion the area around a bunion while relieving pressure. This is a common treatment procedure suggested by a podiatric clinic (clinique podiatrique) to treat bunions. You might be given a medical tape that will be applied to your toes to hold them in the correct position.
Orthotic Devices
Orthotics are shoe inserts that support your feet, thereby treating bunions. You might opt for the OTC orthotics or customized inserts. For example, your podiatrist might place a spacer between your big toe and second toe. Also, you might have to wear a splint that keeps your big toe straight.
Pain Relievers
Among different treatment options, bunions can be treated with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). They minimize pain and swelling. Your doctor might prescribe pills. These can be consumed orally or topical NSAIDs (creams or ointments that you can rub into your skin).
Ice Therapy
Can bunions be treated at home? Yes, if it is in the earlier stage. Applying ice to the affected area can be helpful. Avoid putting the ice on your skin directly. Instead, use a towel.
When to Consider Surgery?
Non-surgical treatments are effective in treating bunions, but not always. If the pain is severe, you might have to visit a podiatric clinic (clinique podiatrique) for surgery. The common options are osteotomy and lapiplasty.
When to Visit a Podiatrist?
You might not always deal with bunions with ice therapy or changing your shoes. Here are certain scenarios when you must visit a foot specialist in Montreal.
| Scenarios | What to experience |
| Consistent pain | Pain interfering with your walking or daily activities |
| Noticeable deformation | The big toe is pushing against the second toe |
| Inflammation | Joint stiffness |
Table: Consulting a podiatrist for bunions
How can you Prevent Further Progression of Bunions?
A change in your regular habit might prevent a bunion from reaching a concerning stage. You need to engage in foot exercises. Some of the key ones are toe curls, toe spreads, marble pick-ups, etc. Make them a part of your regular habits.
Always maintain a healthy weight. This lowers extra pressure on the feet. Remember, your body weight must be proportional to your height. Seek professional guidance to improve mobility if you start witnessing any symptoms.
Wrapping Up
Bunions are a common foot problem that is caused by wrong footwear choice, abnormal foot mechanics, and genetics. The symptoms are redness, swelling, stiffness, etc. The key treatment procedures are footwear changes, ice therapy, orthotic devices, etc. You need to consult a podiatrist if the pain in your toe is persistent.
Suffering from Bunions? Obtain the Right Treatment
Find a reputable podiatric clinic (clinique podiatrique) in Montreal. Consult with the experienced foot specialists to understand the right treatment for you. Get the problem treated and improve your mobility.
