If you are suffering from foot pain and stiffness due to bunions, Dr. Joseph Disabato and Dr. Shyaun Rafii of Virginia Foot & Ankle Surgical Associates in Charlottesville, and Culpeper, VA, can offer the information and treatment you need.
What are bunions?
Bunions, also known as hallux valgus, are protruding bumps and deformities between the big toe and the big toe joint. The most common sign of a bunion is a bony bump located on the inside of your foot that may cause pain and swelling. Bunions also can cause stiffness in your foot and decrease the mobility of your big toe.
How do bunions form?
There are four major causes of a bunion.
Inflammatory disorder
Bunions can be caused by inflammatory conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis.
Genetics
Heredity factors can cause you to become more susceptible to bunions.
Neuromuscular condition
Diseases like polio are known to increase the likelihood of bunions forming on your foot.
High heels and uncomfortable shoes
A common cause of bunions developing is wearing shoes that are too tight or narrow. Footwear like high heels force your feet into unnatural positions and can change the shape of your foot.
How to treat bunions?
Change your footwear
If you are suffering from bunion pain caused by tight shoes, it is essential to switch footwear. Switching to wide shoes with sufficient toe space will take pressure off your big toe and relieve pain.
Manage your weight
Losing weight can ease the pressure put on your feet and relieve the pain that comes with bunions.
Take pain relievers
Over-the-counter pain relievers and anti-inflammatories can offer temporary relief of pain caused by bunions. However, be careful not to overuse them and if the pain were to become unbearable, reach out to the offices of Virginia Foot & Ankle Surgical Associates.
Surgery
In severe cases, surgery can cure bunions by readjusting the big toe's bones, tendons, and ligaments. If home remedies are not working and the pain disrupts your daily functions, consider talking to Dr. Shyaun Rafii and Dr. Joseph Disabato to see if surgery is right for you.
To learn more about the causes and treatments of bunions, reach out to the offices of Virginia Foot & Ankle Surgical Associates in Charlottesville, and Culpeper, VA, at (434) 977-8040 and (540) 825-1350.