FAQs About Bunions
posted: Aug. 09, 2022.
There are many issues that can affect your feet and cause pain. These issues can make it difficult to function and participate in your favorite activities. When you’re dealing with an issue, such as bunions, you may have many questions when you’re trying to understand what’s going on with your feet and how you can relieve your pain. Your podiatrists at Kansas City Foot & Ankle in North Kansas City, Downtown Kansas City, and Lee’s Summit, MO, can answer some of the frequently asked questions you may have about bunions.
Frequently Asked Questions About Bunions
Q. What Are Bunions?
A. Bunions are a deformity that occurs in the bone. It’s an excess amount of bone that tends to grow on the side of the foot at the base of the big toe. Bunions aren’t always painful, but they can be. You may also experience irritation with bunions as they rub against the side of your shoe or if you’re wearing tight shoes, it can squeeze your toes and the bunion can become irritated. Your bunion may also ache if you are standing for long periods of time.
Q. What Causes Bunions?
A. Many people think that bunions are caused by wearing tight shoes, and while wearing tight shoes doesn’t help, it doesn’t usually cause bunions. Bunions are caused by structural problems in your foot. If you have low arches, that can disrupt the proper functionality of your foot and can cause bunions in the future.
Q. How Are Bunions Treated?
A. Bunions are treated with at-home methods mostly. They won’t go away without surgery, but you can ease your pain. You may want to ice your feet daily, wear pads on the sides of your feet to reduce irritation, and do stretching exercises each day. In severe cases, surgery may be needed to shave the bunion down.
Contact Your Podiatrist Today
Don’t hesitate to ask any further questions you may have about bunions. Contact your podiatrists at Kansas City Foot & Ankle in North Kansas City, Downtown Kansas City, and Lee’s Summit, MO, to learn more about bunions and how they can be dealt with. Call for more information and to schedule an appointment today at (816) 943-1111.