What is a bunion? A bunion is an enlargement of the joint at the base of the big toe that forms when the bone or tissue at the big toe joint moves out of place. Since this joint carries a lot of the body’s weight while walking, bunions can cause extreme pain if left untreated. Common complaints of a bunion deformity include; Development of a firm bump on the outside edge of the foot, at the base of the big toe, redness, swelling, or pain at or near the big toe joint, corns or other irritations caused by the overlap of the first and second toes and restricted or painful motion of the big toe joint.
How do you get a bunion? Bunions are generally brought about by years of abnormal motion and pressure over the joint by the big toe. They are, therefore, a symptom of faulty foot development and are usually caused by the way we walk. This is usually caused by heredity but can be brought on by improper shoe gear (high heels) for many years or activities that put a lot of stress on the big toe joint (ballet).
How do you treat it? Conservative treatment would include padding and taping, medication such as anti-inflammatory drugs, or cortisone injections, physical therapy, often used to provide relief of the inflammation and increasing flexibility of the soft tissue structures, orthotics or shoe inserts controlling foot function, reducing symptoms and preventing progression of the deformity and surgery.
There are many types of bunion procedures ranging from recently innovated approaches such as “The Minimal Bunionectomy,” or Austin Bunionectomy – the patient can start walking the day of the procedure, and the recovery time is between two to six weeks. To get a visual animation of the Austin Bunionectomy go to www.curefeet.com .
Bunions can be very debilitating, but the good news is that in recent years more refined approaches in both conservative and surgical treatments have emerged resulting in faster relief and recovery. Why live with pain if you don’t have to?
Dr. Tony Avakian received his medical and surgical training at Cornell Medical Center, Midway Hospital, and Cedars Sinai. He is The Surgical Director of Valencia Medical Group, and is featured on Medspa 90210.
For more information, please call 661-288-2321.