Of all the foot deformities that podiatric patients experience, bunions are very common and possibly the most uncomfortable to live with daily. Bunions make shoes ill-fitting and make you insecure about the overall aesthetic appearance of your feet. To understand the causes and treatments for bunions, visit Dr. Craig Cortese, Dr. Steve Yeschek, and Dr. Kimberly Eickmeier at Cortese Foot and Ankle Clinic in Normal, IL. The clinic serves patients in Bloomington and Pontiac, IL.
Why Do Bunions Form?
Considering how much weight, pressure, and wear and tear the feet withstand daily, it’s understandable that foot deformities like bunions can develop over time. Bunions usually form due to weakened joints and wearing ill-fitting pointed shoes that press the toes together for extended periods. After a while, the toe bone moves outward, causing a protrusion that looks like a growth outside the foot.
Bunion Treatments
Untreated bunions can cause foot pain and overlapping of the toes. Your Normal, IL podiatrist will treat your bunions using a combination of therapies, including:
- Foot wrapping and padding.
- Orthotic devices or shoes.
- Corticosteroid injections.
- Ice and heat therapy to reduce swelling and inflammation.
- Bunionectomy (a surgery to align the toes into a healthy position and remove excess bone tissue).
How You Can Prevent Bunions
You must commit to new habits to promote better foot health and prevent bunions. Observe these basic foot health tips:
- Avoid wearing high heels or shoes that come to a point in front.
- Ask your podiatrist about toe spacers.
Have Your Bunions Examined
After examining the severity of your bunions, a doctor can devise a treatment plan that could help realign and strengthen your feet. Call (309) 452-3000 today to schedule an appointment with Dr. Craig Cortese, Dr. Steve Yeschek, or Dr. Kimberly Eickmeier for bunions at Cortese Foot and Ankle Clinic in Normal, IL. The clinic also serves patients in Bloomington and Pontiac, IL.