About 50% of women and up to 25% of men suffer from bunions at some stage of life. This common foot problem produces painful, bony protuberances that can restrict movement. If not addressed, bunion symptoms may become so severe that walking is affected. A Chattanooga podiatrist helps keep patients active with safe, non-surgical therapies for effective relief of bunion pain.
A bunion is an abnormal growth of the metatarsophalangeal joint of the big toe. Bunions occur when faulty foot mechanics lead to excess pressure on the joint over a period of time. The underlying problem may be genetic, but bunions frequently develop after many years of wearing stylish narrow shoes with pointed toes.
A bunion appears as a swollen, red, bony protuberance on the inside of the foot. It pushes the big toe inward towards the other toes. The affected area may feel tender, stiff, numb or painful. A fluid-filled called a bursa often forms over the bump. Callouses or corns may develop between the toes. Bunions pain tends to worsen when walking in inflexible or narrow shoes.
At the Chattanooga podiatry center, bunion patients receive a thorough evaluation. The doctor discusses their symptoms, examines their feet and observes their walking motion. He measures angles between the joint bones to assess the stage of the bunion. He then consults x-rays of the foot to check for any other disorders.
If a bunion is identified early, its progression can be stopped by applying conservative therapies. Padding, splints or toe spacers relieve pressure on the joint and restore the big toe's normal alignment. Custom orthotics reduce discomfort when walking. Ultrasound sessions relieve pain and inflammation and promote healing of soft tissues.
According to the Chattanooga podiatrist, the best way to prevent symptomatic bunions is to choose appropriate footwear. Shoe size should be based on precise foot measurement. Frequently worn shoes should have heels under two inches high and a toe box with wiggle room.
A bunion is an abnormal growth of the metatarsophalangeal joint of the big toe. Bunions occur when faulty foot mechanics lead to excess pressure on the joint over a period of time. The underlying problem may be genetic, but bunions frequently develop after many years of wearing stylish narrow shoes with pointed toes.
A bunion appears as a swollen, red, bony protuberance on the inside of the foot. It pushes the big toe inward towards the other toes. The affected area may feel tender, stiff, numb or painful. A fluid-filled called a bursa often forms over the bump. Callouses or corns may develop between the toes. Bunions pain tends to worsen when walking in inflexible or narrow shoes.
At the Chattanooga podiatry center, bunion patients receive a thorough evaluation. The doctor discusses their symptoms, examines their feet and observes their walking motion. He measures angles between the joint bones to assess the stage of the bunion. He then consults x-rays of the foot to check for any other disorders.
If a bunion is identified early, its progression can be stopped by applying conservative therapies. Padding, splints or toe spacers relieve pressure on the joint and restore the big toe's normal alignment. Custom orthotics reduce discomfort when walking. Ultrasound sessions relieve pain and inflammation and promote healing of soft tissues.
According to the Chattanooga podiatrist, the best way to prevent symptomatic bunions is to choose appropriate footwear. Shoe size should be based on precise foot measurement. Frequently worn shoes should have heels under two inches high and a toe box with wiggle room.
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Find a summary of the benefits of consulting a podiatric physician and more information about an experienced Chattanooga podiatrist at http://www.rebyfootcare.com now.
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