Although they may seem like a minor body part, feet are actually very complicated. People move because of the coordinated action of their bones, ligaments, and joints and therefore, once even a minor problem occurs, you might experience severe pain.
Bunions are an example of a minor foot ailment that, if not properly diagnosed and swiftly treated, can develop into a serious one. Bunions might develop at the bottom of your big toe.
What causes bunions?
Bunions are caused due to several reasons. Some of them are listed here for you.
- Wearing a shoe that doesn’t fit you properly can increase the risk of developing bunions.
- Having flat feet can also increase the chances of bunions.
- Your joints have greater flexibility than normal.
- Family history.
- As your age increases, you will be at risk for bunions.
- Suffering from rheumatoid arthritis or gout.
- There are other illnesses, such as polio or cerebral palsy.
For bunion treatment, you must always contact a podiatrist. There are so many podiatrists in Irvine nowadays. As the options are more, you may feel confused when making your choice.
For the best podiatrist Irvine, read the patient reviews carefully. Dr. Sima Soltani is a very famous podiatrist in Irvine. Besides, she offers treatment for various foot-related problems.
Bunion Symptoms
- You may experience severe pain when walking.
- You may experience tissue swelling and redness over your big toe joint.
- Big toe joint malformation.
Most of the time, bunions’ symptoms may be managed without surgery. In order to accomplish this, wear shoes that fit you properly. Some podiatrists may recommend orthotic devices for people suffering from bunions. Ibuprofen and other anti-inflammatory drugs can help to temporarily reduce discomfort.
How bunions are diagnosed?
When you meet a podiatrist, you need to discuss about your problem in detail with them. Your Irvine podiatrist will analyze your condition properly and check the symptoms. X-rays will next be used as part of the diagnostic tests to determine the severity of your condition. Most podiatrists will treat this condition without the need for surgery.
In fact, a podiatrist will recommend surgery only if it is really necessary. Surgery’s primary objective is realigning your big toe joint to reduce discomfort, treat deformity, and regain function.
In most cases, stitches will be removed 2 weeks after the surgery. For a few weeks after the stitches are removed, the foot may need to be supported and protected by wearing bandages. It is better to wear open shoes for some time until things get back to normal. Additionally, specific orthotic shoes could be advised.
You may experience numbness sometimes post the surgery in the affected area. During surgery, some of your nerves might get damaged, and this numbness is a result of that. But this kind of sensation does not last for a long time.
As the days go on, this sensation goes away. If you experience any infection post-surgery near your stitches, you must immediately contact your podiatrist.
Some of the signs of infection include swelling, throbbing pain, and increased redness.
It might take around 2 to 3 months to recover completely post the surgery. Try to wear the open shoe in warmer months because they can be worn comfortably.
A person who performs a less physically demanding profession, such as office work, will be able to return to work sooner than someone who is working in a place where physical work is involved more.
What questions you must ask a podiatrist?
· What caused bunions in my case?
As a podiatrist will analyze your condition, he or she will let you know the possible causes of bunions.
· How should I take care of myself post the surgery?
You must find out the ways to take care of yourself post the surgery. Check whether you can use the hot packs or cold packs on the surgical site. Find out when you can take your bath post-surgery.
· Are there any chances of experiencing bunions again post-surgery?
There is no guarantee that bunions won’t return after surgery. You must take preventive steps to avoid bunions post-surgery. Ask your podiatrist about how to prevent bunions in the future.
· What kind of shoe should I use post-surgery?
Most podiatrists proactively give you information on this. If your podiatrist didn’t inform you about this, ask him or her about this without hesitating.
Find a good Orange County Podiatrist today to get rid of bunions without the need for a surgery!
