Know More About Bunions Before Approaching A Podiatrist

Foot Clinic

If a bump has developed on the side of your big toe, get in touch with experienced podiatrists and they will let you know whether it is a bunion. Bunions generally occur due to abnormality of the foot bone, which prevents the big toe from being straight. It starts leaning towards the second toe. This creates an angle which looks like a bump on your toe. Don’t ignore the foot condition just because it is painless. The toes might start crowding over time. Not only will this cause pain but might also lead to permanent deformity.

Causes

A majority of the podiatrists believe that bunions are a genetic condition. They generally occur if the foot structure is faulty and is considered to be inherited. Few other conditions for which a bunion can develop are excessively flexible ligaments, flat feet and abnormal bone structure. It might also occur if your shoes don’t fit properly. Since there are various reasons why a bunion might develop in your feet, get in touch with an experienced podiatrist and let them assess the condition. 

Few Things Which Aggrevate Bunions

  • Symptoms of arthritis in your feet.
  • Standing for a prolonged period of time.
  • Wearing shoes with pointy toes or high heels. 
  • Wearing too small or tight shoes which put more pressure on the big toe.

7 Common Signs And Symptoms Of A Bunion

  • Skin on the side of the big toe is becoming inflamed or red.
  • The skin below your big toe is becoming thick.
  • You can’t move your big toe with ease.
  • The second toe has calluses.
  • Big toe leaning towards other toes.
  • Persistent or repetitive foot pain
  • Difficulty in walking

4 Signs You Need To Consult A Podiatrist

  • Constant pain in your foot
  • The big toe is losing flexibility
  • Can’t find shoes which fits you comfortably
  • A large lump has developed near the big toe joint

Diagnosis

Get in touch with a renowned podiatrist in Farnham if you ever notice any of the signs and symptoms stated above. They will conduct a visual inspection and diagnose the issue. They might ask you to move the toe back and forth during the physical exam to check whether your movement has become limited. They generally suggest an X-ray if they feel that there is some underlying injury or deformity. The X-ray helps in assessing the severity of the issue and its cause. They might also suggest you to get a blood test done to check whether it has occurred due to arthritis.

2 Methods Of Treatment

  • Non-Surgical Treatment

If the issue is a minor one, the podiatrist might suggest you to wear shoes with padded sole and sufficient room for your toes. You can even minimise the pressure on the bunion by tapping your foot into a normal position. Some podiatrists suggest their patients to take over-the-counter pain relievers.

  • Surgeries

Surgery might be required if the non-surgical treatment options are not effective. Bunions can be treated through various surgical procedures. Let your podiatrist assess the condition and suggest the most suitable procedure.

Since your knowledge about bunions has enhanced, it’s time you approach a reputed podiatrist and treat the issue without any delay.

4 Tips By Chiropodists To Take Care Of Your Feet During Winter

farnham chiropodist

Winter is all about snow and ice. The temperature drops drastically and this can turn out to be quite dangerous for your feet unless you maintain proper foot care. Every precaution should be undertaken so that they can stay dry and warm. People in higher-risk groups like those with poor blood circulation, diabetics or other medical conditions should get in touch with a renowned chiropodist. Their feet are more susceptible to damage during the chilled winter season. If you want your feet to feel and look healthy throughout the season, there are a few tips you can definitely follow.

Take Care Of Your Feet During Winter With These 4 Tips

  • Wear Comfy Boots
    Chiropodists suggest their clients to wear comfortable boots as tight footwear can reduce the flow of blood. This can lead to frostbite or worsen conditions like Raynaud or Chilblains. Look for boots which will let you twist your toes but keep the ball of your foot sturdy. Your feet will remain stable on slippery and wet surfaces if your boot has a supportive heel, solid base, straps or laces. The boot’s thread should be inspected minutely to ensure good traction. Don’t buy winter gear of a larger size if you want to avoid foot injuries or blisters.
  • Keep It Dry And Clean
    One of the main reasons why our feet sweat a lot during winter is because of those wool socks and winter boots. Though they keep our feet toasty and warm, they become prone to viral and bacterial infections. Chiropodists suggest their clients to use foot powder as it helps in keeping your foot dry and clean. If you are opting for Epsom salt footbaths, make sure you dry your feet properly after the footbath. Buy some socks made using moisture-wicking material as they can absorb the excess moisture from your skin. Socks with infused copper or silver prevent heat from escaping and keeps moisture away.
  • Dry Your Boots
    Every chiropodist in Farnham will agree with the fact that wearing damp boots during winter can harm your foot drastically. They are generally made using non-breathable materials which traps moisture inside them and keep them wet. Dry your shoes or boots thoroughly before wearing them. Not only will this prevent your feet from becoming cold quickly but also keep away bacteria and fungi. The best you can do is to keep 2 pairs of shoes so that you don’t have to wear the same shoes every day.
  • Wash Your Feet And Take Care Of Your Skin
    Preventing toenail fungus and other feet issues become easier if you wash them daily and keep them clean. Socks should be changed every day and dry your feet completely before wearing them. You can reduce discomfort and avoid infections by mixing Epsom salt in warm water and soaking your feet in the solution for around 10 minutes. Since there is less humidity in the air during winter, your skin will also have less moisture. Using a good moisturiser is highly advisable if you want to treat dry skin and painful fissures.

Time to follow the tips stated above and get in touch with a renowned chiropodist if you want to take proper care of your feet during winter.