Bunion Treatment Bankstown NSW
What Are Bunions?
Bunions, referred to in the medical community as Hallux Valgus, are one of the most common foot problems.
Bunions are formed when the bones in the big toe drift towards the second toe creating a bony bump (known as a bunion) on the base of the big toe. The continued movement of the big toe drifting towards the smaller toes causes in many cases the big toe resting under or over the second toe.
Causes Of Bunions
This foot condition is experienced mostly by women due to wearing tight, narrow dress shoes with a constrictive toe area causing the foot to begin to take the shape of the shoe, leading to the formation of a bunion.
Non-surgical bunion treatments should be explored first but if the pain is persistent and becoming too uncomfortable you can opt for bunion surgery, a minimally invasive corrective procedure with a high success rate.
Another type of bunion is called a Tailor’s Bunion, also known as a Bunionette. This forms on the outside of the foot towards the joint at the little toe. It is a smaller bump and caused by the little toe moving inwards and towards the big toe.
Treatment For Bunions
Traditionally, bunion surgery includes a small incision to remove the bunion, a correction of the deformity and the realignment of joints around the toes in order to relieve pain and discomfort. The surgery can be conducted with either local or general anaesthetic and is a day procedure meaning that you will not be required to stay overnight.
Bunion surgery does not necessarily guarantee a desired outcome and while successful in over 85% of cases there can be some stiffness around the joint where the bunion once was. Success boils down to the type of surgery opted for, skill of the surgeon and severity of the case. While we are confident in our abilities it is our recommendation against surgery if your reasoning is purely cosmetic.
You should, however, seek bunion surgery if you experience severe foot pain, a big toe deformity, significant stiffness and/ or swelling.
At Bankstown Podiatry Clinic our Podiatrist is happy to consult on which bunion treatment option is best for your case. Call us today for a friendly chat and book a consultation if your bunions are causing you pain.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you get rid of bunions on your feet?: All bunions are permanent unless surgically corrected, however, there are some measures you can take to relieve pain and pressure on the toe joint. These include maintaining a healthy weight, use shoe inserts to help position the foot correctly, wear a prescribed splint at night and buy well fitting footwear that are wide in the toe area.
Do bunion correctors really work?: No, there is no evidence that bunion correctors really work. While you are wearing them they may relieve discomfort and feel as if they are working but the truth is your toe will not stay that way after you remove the splint. Bunions are permanent unless surgically corrected.
Can a bunion go away on its own?: Bunions are permanent unless surgically corrected. They will not go away on their own and tend to worsen with age.