Are Bunions Arthritis?
Bunion Treatment
Table of Contents
If you think you have a bunion, you know how painful it can be and how important it is to receive treatment, but you may not know what is causing you the pain.
At PODIATRY GROUP OF GEORGIA, We Can Help Answer and Treat Three Common Questions Related to Bunions:
- What is a bunion?
- What kind of bunion treatment options are available?
- Are Bunions Arthritis?
A bunion is a bone deformity on the foot that forms when the toe moves out of place. Bunions are caused by an enlargement of the joint located at the base and side of the big toe. This enlargement creates a bump that causes friction and pressure as it rubs against footwear. Bunion treatment and in some cases, bunion surgery, is available to help alleviate the pain.
There Are Three Parts of The Bunion That Give Patients Problems:
The big toe moving toward the other toes causing it to go over or under the second toe.
The bump itself that causes friction and pain.
When the long bone of the foot, specifically known as the first metatarsal, moves toward the other foot so it’s at an angle when it’s supposed to be parallel. This causes a loss of cartilage between the two bones which is painful because cartilage is what allows the bones to move over each other.
What Kind of Bunion Treatment Is Available?
Bunions are not able to heal themselves because they are bone deformities. Instead, bunion treatment involves:
- Relieving the pressure and pain caused by the irritation
- Stopping the continued growth of the bunion
- Bunion surgery in some cases
BUNION TREATMENT OPTIONS AT PODIATRY GROUP OF GEORGIA INCLUDE:
- The use of protective padding or bandaging to eliminate the friction against shoes.
- Changing to carefully-fitted footwear designed to accommodate the bunion
- Custom orthotic devices to help stabilize the joint and place the foot in the correct position for walking and standing
- Physical therapy to maintain joint mobility and prevent stiffness or arthritis
- Splints for nighttime wear to help the toes and joint align properly
- Anti-inflammatories
- Depending on the size of the enlargement, misalignment of the toe, and the degree of pain experienced, bunion treatment may require more complex alternatives. Bunion surgery, known as a bunionectomy, is a possibility that may be advised to remove the bunion and realign the toe.
Bunion Surgery
The above types of bunion treatment can help take care of the pain, but not the deformity itself. When it becomes difficult to bear weight, bunion surgery is an option. PODIATRY GROUP OF GEORGIA specializes in minimally invasive bunion surgery to help correct the bunion. The bunion surgery would consist of correcting the position of the big toe joint by making a small incision in the foot.
THE BUNION SURGERY CAN ALSO HELP WITH:
- The position of the big toe joint
- Relieving pain and stiffness
- Getting back to normal activity in a timely manner
Who to Call!
If you’ve been searching for podiatric surgeons for your foot and ankle needs, take time to meet with the Podiatry Group of Georgia. Our doctor has the experience and knowledge you need to help your feet and ankles feel their best. Give us a call today and set up an appointment for your initial consultation. Call us today at Our Marietta, Georgia Office Today at 404-806-3731 or Book your appointment online now!