Healthy
Living -- pages 18 - 22
To your Health !
- Bunions -
As we age , our activity level drops , and issues we never thought would happen to us suddenly do . One of those issues appears as a small bump on the side of your big toe , medically known as a bunion .
Many of us initially ignore that bump , but we should not , because that small bump reflects a change in the entire bony structure of the front part of the foot . The bump is a side effect of that change , which sees the big toe lean toward the second toe , throwing the bones out of alignment . As long as the bump is ignored , that movement continues and will eventually throw the entire front of the foot out of whack , changing the gait of the afflicated person . Eventually , that bunion becomes more prominent - and painful .
In fact , symptoms can include pain , soreness , inflammation , and redness around the site of the bunion . A burning sensation and possible numbness could follow . Shoes that crowd the toes can move the bunion progression more quickly , which is one of the reasons women are more likely to suffer symptoms than men , especially those who wear shoes with a tight toe box or high heels . In addition , spending long periods of time on your feet can aggravate the symptoms of bunions .
Bunions do not go away - they usually get worse with time . An ongoing discussion must be started and continue between bunion sufferers and their foot and ankle surgeons . Initial X-rays will provide a treatment baseline , then a treatment plan can be put into place . Most often , that plan includes shoewear changes , padding , anti-inflammatory drugs , orthotic devices , and daily icing for that area . As a last resort , some bunions require surgery , based on whether that procedure can reduce pain and deformity .
Bunions are not a necessary evil - take note of any changes in your feet , especially involving the big toe . If you see or feel a bump in that area , do not hesitate - find a foot doctor immediately . Bunion issues can be overcome - be aware and proactive so you can avoid forming them in the first place . As a last resort , consider surgery , based on whether that procedure can reduce pain and deformity .
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