Bunions are bony bumps that are located on the big toe joint. The bunion appears when stress on the joint causes the big toe to rub against the one next to it. This makes the joint in your big toe to enlarge and protrude. It is painful and develops slowly. If it isn’t treated, walking and wearing shoes can be excruciating. If your bunion is giving you pain that is so uncomfortable you can’t function normally, it is time to seek medical help.
How Bunions Grow
Bunions grow gradually over time. The bigger the bump, the worse the symptoms are. Continuing to wear tight shoes can also lead to the worsening of the bunion. Most adult bunions happen from ill-fitting footwear. You can also get bunions from chronic conditions like arthritis. Joliet bunions are typically genetic.
Signs of a Bunion
The obvious sign of a bunion is the visible bump on the side of the big toe. There can also be tenderness and pain of the area. This can lead to difficulty in walking or even a restricted range of motion of the foot. Calluses on the bunion are common as well.
Medical Intervention
If the bunion is painful and doesn’t get seen by a doctor, your symptoms are going to worsen. Consult with a podiatrist to go over all courses of treatment. The services provided include consultation, physical examinations, and x-rays to determine your foot alignment. Treatment can be surgical or non-surgical. It depends on an individual situation.
If your podiatrist determines bunion surgery in Joliet is necessary, he or she can outline the proper way to correct the condition. The procedure is usually quick and simple. After completion, most patients are sent home within a few short hours.
It is important to listen to what your doctor says in terms of treatment. Once treated, you can resume your normal activity once the foot is completely healed.
If you need bunion surgery in Joliet, contact Suburban Foot & Ankle Associates for help.