– What is the meaning of a bunion?
– What are its causes and how can we prevent it?
A bunion refers to a bump or bulge on the first joint of the big toe. It is a bony enlargement of the joint and surrounding soft tissues at the base of the big toe.
Also, bunions are commonly referred to as bumps on the side of the big toe. They occur when there are enlargements of the inner portion of the metatarsophalangeal joint at the base of your big toe.
Often times, bunions are caused by the swelling of a sac of fluid under the skin.
Whenever this condition occurs it is important to treat it with urgency, do not leave it so that it will not get worse.
There are some risk factors for this condition, some of the include the following;
1. Wearing improper footwears such as tight fitting ones and shoes that are too small can cause bunions.
2. Also, when you wear high heels( especially the ones that have no balance). Even narrow-toed shoes or shoes that make your toes squeeze together can cause it.
3. Stress on the feet or foot injuries can also cause it.
4. Neuromuscular disorders, as well as medical conditions affecting the joints such as arthritis, can be the cause.
5. Genetics is also another risk factor.
6. Congenital deformities or deformities at birth can also cause it.
Symptoms of a bunion include the following;
- Bump or bulge at the base of the big toe is the main symptom.
- Tenderness of the area around the joint.
- Swelling or soreness of the area.Redness.
Experiencing pain is also anoth - r symptom, the pain might be mild or severe.
Treating bunions can either be surgical or non-surgical based on the severity of the condition. You can take medication to relieve the pain, you can also wear custom orthotics to provide better movement and stability of the foot.
Another means of treating it is by using physiotherapy to reduce the pain.
Also, padding and taping to put your foot in its normal position works well, also, applying ice or cold compresses to reduce swelling and pain.