At Clintonville Foot & Ankle Group, serving Columbus, and Dublin, OH, and the nearby regions, Dr. Michael Perez, Dr. Corey Griffith, and Dr. Randall Thomas have experience treating bunions and understand the issues they can cause. Bunions can not only be unsightly, but they can also contribute to pain. If you think you have one, have an odd lump on your big toe joint, or have already been diagnosed, you may have some questions. We have some answers.
What's a Bunion?
A bunion is a bony lump on the last joint of your big toe. It's part of the production and caused by a deformity in that joint. Specifically, the tip of the big toe will get pushed toward your other toes. As a result, the last joint becomes out of place. You'll then have a bump that sticks out from the side of the toe.
What Are the Symptoms of a Bunion?
Besides the bulge on the side of your toe, you might notice that the area is red. It may swell or be painful. Any pain you feel from this problem tends to come and go. You may develop a corn or callus because of your toes rubbing together. In more severe cases, you might have a limited range of motion in that toe.
What Causes Bunions?
Researchers haven't come to a unanimous decision as to what causes a bunion. Many theories have arisen. Most likely, though, scientists believe it could come from a deformity at birth, foot type, stress, or injuries.
Some speculation suggests wearing shoes with too narrow of toes, high-heeled shoes, and those that are too tight in general may contribute to the onset. However, experts aren't all in agreeance on this.
It appears there may be a connection between rheumatoid arthritis and bunions.
How Will a Podiatrist Diagnose a Bunion?
One of our podiatrists who serve Columbus, and Dublin, OH, and the surrounding areas will first examine your toe. This is often enough to diagnose the problem. In some cases, though, a practitioner may order an X-ray to provide a detailed image of the structure of your toe to find the best course of action for you.
How Will a Doctor Treat It?
A doctor may provide you with advice on easing your symptoms and preventing them from worsening. Sometimes, surgery is necessary in more severe cases.
At Clintonville Foot & Ankle Group, serving Columbus, and Dublin, OH, and the neighboring communities, Dr. Perez, Dr. Griffith, or Dr. Thomas can help you if you have, or think you have, a bunion.
For an appointment with a podiatrist, contact one of our locations today at:
Columbus - (614) 267-8387
Dublin - (614) 761-1466