Podiatry for Bunions

A bunion (otherwise known as a hallux valgus) is often described as a bump on the side of the big toe. This visible bump shows changes in the big toe joint. The big toe will begin to deviate towards the second toe, rather than pointing straight ahead.

Bunions are not always symptomatic; however, they are a progressive deformity. Bunions begin with the deviation of the hallux, which gradually changes the angle of the bones and increases the prominence of the bony bump.

What causes bunions to develop?

Bunions form when there is an increase in the pressure and force placed on the big toe joint. Some people believe that bunions themselves are hereditary, however, this is not the case. Although, the foot type that caused the bunion to develop can be passed on. Bunions are also not only caused by poor fitted shows, however, footwear that crowds the toes can make the deformity progress quicker, and the symptoms to become more prominent.

Foot types that may cause bunions:

Flat Feet – places increased pressure on the big toe joint
Joint Hypermobility – allows forefoot/metatarsal arch to easily collapse upon weight-bearing.
Short first metatarsal
Weak intrinsic foot muscles

Other causes:

Footwear – such as high heels and narrow footwear which causes the toes to be pressed together.
Dancing (in particular, ballet), and other sports or occupations which place an increased pressure on the forefoot.
Rheumatoid arthritis or gout

Podiatry for Bunions | Signs and Symptoms

The signs and symptoms of a bunion include:

A bulging bump on the outside base of your big toe.
Swelling, redness or soreness around your big toe joint.
Corns or calluses – often developed where the first and second toes rub against each other.
Ongoing pain or pain that comes and goes.
Limited movement of your big toe.

Although bunions often require no medical treatment, if you are experiencing any of the following signs of symptoms, seek podiatry for bunions are Sky Podiatry:

Consistent pain in your foot or big toe.
A noticeable bump on your big toe joint.
Decreased movement of your big toe or foot.
Difficultly finding shoes that properly fit due to the bunion.

Bunion Treatment | Podiatry for Bunions

Seeking podiatry for bunions early can help reduce the pressure of the bunion and improve the strength of the forefoot is recommended to slow or ideally stop the progression of the joint deformity. At Sky Podiatry, we utilise high-end pressure plate technology to identify the cause of the bunions, and to provide the right treatment.

Podiatry for bunions treatment include:

Improved footwear- avoid shoes with high heels, or a narrow toe box
Foot strengthening exercises
Improved flexibility through toe stretches and gentle mobilisations
Bunion splint – worn overnight to help stretch and realign the joint of the big toe
Toe separators – which separate the big toe from the second toe.
Custom Orthotics – individually designs custom innersoles for your shoes that can assist with the treatment of bunion pain.

How Sky Podiatry help bunions

Where possible, the early detection and management of bunions is ideal for achieving the best long-term results. If your bunion is noticeable, but still flexible, it may be possible to reduce its severity. Finding the right podiatry for bunions treatment is assessed on a case-to-case basis, as the features of a bunion can differ for everyone. Once assessed, your podiatrist will let you know what you can expect from the treatment, and if a non-surgical solution is viable.

The first step to treating bunions is identifying what your risk factors are. We will assess how you walk, the function of the bones, joints, ligaments, and muscles in your feet and legs. We will also assess if there are any restrictions and the current movement in the joins of your feet and around your big toe.. All this is completed through a biomechanical assessment using our state-of-the-art Sensor Medica pressure plate technology.

Your podiatrist at Sky Podiatry will then create a treatment plan based on what will help achieve the best results for your feet and bunion. We are renowned for creating custom orthotics to relieve any pressure away from the big toe joint. We will also take an individualised approach to recommend footwear to reduce the pain and help prevent any further bunion development.

Surgical correction of bunions may also be an option, however, is only considered after all other podiatry for bunions options have been explored to avoid its invasive nature.

Book an Appointment Today.

Sky Podiatry

Shop 3/220-224 Westbury Rd, Prospect, TAS 7250

(03) 6732 7838

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Sky Podiatry

Target Complex, Shop 5/21 Vermont Rd, Mowbray, TAS 7248

(03) 6724 3171

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