There are few issues of the feet that are more painful than bunions. While there are some factors that can contribute to the development of these lumps on the joint of the big toe, in many cases they are preventable. Avoiding these structural issues of the foot and not having to see a bunion doctor at all is really your best possible option.
It is not clear to podiatrist how large of a factor genetics plays into the development of bunions. However, there is no mistake that every bunion doctor will report that the majority of patients treated for this condition are women, and the vast majority of these women have a history of wearing a specific type of dress shoes.
The Shoe Issue
If there is one thing a bunion doctor would tell all women is to avoid wearing high-heeled shoes that are tight on the feet and have a pointed toe. It is not problematic to wear these shoes every now and then, but many women wear them daily and spend hours standing or walking in these shoes.
In high heels or with very narrow and pointed toes, the weight of the body is no longer naturally distributed through the foot. Instead, the weight of the body and the weight of each step transfers from the heel through the toe to falling directly on the ball of the foot.
The weight, irregular foot movement and the restrictive shape of the toe box on the toes pushes the big toe over to the side and puts more pressure where the toe joint presses against the edge of the shoe. Over time this swells and becomes irritated and, without a change in shoes, it can create an actually structural change in the joint.
Early Treatment
If you experience pain in the joint of your big toe combined with swelling or irritation, see a bunion doctor as soon as possible. Not all bunions are caused by shoes, and there can be inherited foot structures that make anyone more likely to develop bunions, even men or women who do not wear high heels or restrictive shoes.
Arthritis can also treated through a bunion doctor if that joint is impacted or affected. Early diagnosis always allows for a greater range of treatment options which can include the use of medications and orthotics instead or requiring surgery.
If you think you need a bunion doctor or if you have foot pain or problems, see our podiatrist at Suburban Orthopaedics. To learn more about our clinic and our physicians see us at www.suburbanortho.com. You can also follow them on Twitter for more updates!