Bunions: What Are They and How Are They Treated?
Did you know that as many as 1 in 3 Americans have bunions? Unfortunately, bunions are very common but they are also treatable. Some measures may also reduce the risk of bunions forming. Suffering from bunions? If you live in or near Moline, IL and bunions plague you, stop by The Advanced Foot and Ankle Center to speak with Dr. Brian Ting.
What Are Bunions?
Bunions are lumps that typically form on the joints of your big toe. These lumps often feel bony and can cause a lot of pain, especially if you’re spending a lot of time on your feet or are wearing shoes or sandals. The scientific term for bunions is “Hallux Valgus.”
Why Do Bunions Form?
Your feet will likely suffer a lot of wear and tear. Many people walk tens of thousands of miles or more throughout the course of their life. Years of wear and tear, along with pressure, can result in a bunion forming on the joint of your big toe.
Who Gets Bunions?
Anyone can get bunions. That said, some factors may put you at a higher risk of getting bunions. These lumps are more common among seniors, which should come as no surprise. After all, older individuals will typically have more wear and tear on their feet.
Other factors can increase the risks of bunions. For example, if you wear shoes that are too tight or simply don’t fit well, the risk of bunions will increase. Ditto for high heels. In some cases, some folks seem genetically predisposed to them.
If you're at high risk of bunions and live near Moline, IL, swing by The Advanced Foot and Ankle Center to speak with Dr. Ting.
How Can Bunions Be Prevented?
If you’re worried about bunions or have suffered from them in the past, you can take preemptive measures to decrease the likelihood of them forming. Wearing properly fitting shoes is one of the best steps you can take to reduce the risks of these lumps. Limiting how often you wear high heels may also help.
Resting your feet on a regular basis is also wise. Not only could this reduce bunions, but it could help address other issues, as well.
How Can Bunions Be Treated?
There are some safeguards you can take at home to treat bunions, including wearing more comfortable shoes. Ice will also help with swelling and over-the-counter pain medications may take the edge off any aches.
That said, surgery may be needed to properly treat bunions. With surgery, swollen tissue can be removed. Your big toe can also be straightened out and otherwise adjusted to reduce the risk of bunions forming. In some cases, the bones in your big toe may be fused together to prevent bunions.
Residents suffering from bunions who live around Moline, IL should contact The Advanced Foot and Ankle Center to chat with Dr. Brian Ting. Dial (309) 762-5655 today.
Dr. Ting is one of the only surgeons in the quad cities that is able to perform Lapyplasty Bunion Procedure. Please call to make an appointment and learn more about this advanced procedure and why the results are better.
Concerned about your bunions? Want to learn more about your treatment options? Contact our practice and schedule your appointment today.