Bunion assessment
A bunion is a bony bump that forms at the base of the big toe, where it meets the foot. It occurs when the big toe leans inward toward the other toes, causing the joint at the base of the toe to stick out. Over time, this misalignment can lead to pain, swelling, and difficulty wearing certain shoes. Bunions can be caused by a variety of factors, including genetics, wearing tight or ill-fitting shoes, or abnormal foot mechanics. They are often painful, especially when standing or walking, and can lead to additional foot issues like calluses or joint stiffness.
A bunion assessment at Supafoot can include..
- Medical History: The podiatrist will ask about your foot health, any pain or discomfort you’ve been experiencing, and whether you’ve had any previous treatments for your bunion.
- Physical Examination: The podiatrist will carefully examine your feet, looking for signs of a bunion, such as swelling, redness, or deformity at the base of the big toe. They will also assess the alignment of your toes and joints.
- Foot Function Evaluation: The podiatrist may check how you walk and move to identify any abnormal foot mechanics that could be contributing to the bunion.
- Treatment Plan: Based on the assessment, the podiatrist will discuss treatment options, which could include padding, orthotics, exercise therapy, or, in more severe cases, surgical options.
FAQs
Can bunions be prevented?
Wearing comfortable shoes with plenty of room for your toes, avoiding high heels, and using orthotics to support proper foot alignment can help reduce the risk of bunions. However, bunions can be genetic so cannot be avoided unfortunately.