Bunions can be painful and debilitating, making your shoes uncomfortable and sometimes making it difficult to walk. If you suffer from bunions, you should seek medical advice from a podiatrist. Dr. Michael Mitry and Dr. Christopher Karter are board-certified podiatrists at Advanced Podiatry of Needham in Needham, MA. They provide diagnosis and treatment of all aspects of podiatry as well as foot and ankle surgery.
What Are Bunions?
A bunion is a hard swelling that forms on the lower joint of the big toe, causing the appendage to press against its neighbor. Bunions can be caused by ill-fitting shoes, arthritis, and stress on the feet. Signs and symptoms of bunions include:
- An inflamed lump at the base of one or both big toes
- Difficulty moving the affected toe
- Swelling and redness around the lower joint of the affected toe
- Pain that comes and goes or persistent pain
- Callouses or corns where the big toe rubs against the next toe
How to Avoid Bunions
Bunions can be avoided if you take care of your feet throughout your life. Bunions develop slowly so it’s a good idea to pay attention to the shape of your feet, so that you can spot the early signs of bunions and talk to a podiatrist.
To prevent bunions, avoid high heels or shoes with narrow, pointed toes. Always wear shoes that are comfortable and don’t put pressure on your feet. Also, performing simple exercises, such as picking up a small object with your toes, can help to strengthen them.
If you suffer from bunions or any other foot condition and you live in the Needham area, call Dr. Mitry or Dr. Karter at (781) 444-4044 to make an appointment.