Bunion pain can be debilitating for those coping with it. Most people think they need to resort to surgery as the initial step in treatment, but surgery should be considered a last treatment option in bunion pain management. That is the philosophy at our Toronto Downtown Chiropody and Podiatry clinic.
What is a Bunion:
The medical term for a bunion is Hallux Abducto Valgus, meaning big toe with a lateral deviation and a twist. Our chiropodist Laura Desjardins approaches these injuries by coaching her patients how manage this condition. Our chiropodist understands that the bunion is a complex injury. The foot moves in three directions, called tri-planar and abnormal foot function of any of those movements can contribute to a bunion. Not only are abnormal foot mechanics a contributing factor, but footwear should also be addressed when treating this injury.
Our chiropodist will give you a musculoskeletal examination where she takes measurements of your foot, bony movements, flexibility, strength, foot type as well as balance and other tests. She will also advise certain exercises or stretches for your particular bunion case. Our chiropodist has a well rounded approach to care where she may also examine your hip strength and leg mechanics. Weak hips can also relate to bunion pain! In painful conditions anti- inflammatory medication and activity modification may be advised. While rehabilitating, orthotics can be a useful tool in restoring foot mechanics and helping to deflect abnormal forces on the foot.
Typically a pronated foot type and flat feet are prone to bunions, but that is not always the case. Even high arched feet can acquire a bunion. That is why it is very important to figure out what your individual mechanical issue contributing to your pain is. Rehabilitation can take weeks to see a benefit, so it does mean being a bit patient. After a hard effort in rehabilitation, footwear modification and adherence to other treatment plans suggested by our chiropodist, and orthopaedic surgeon referral may be the next step. The chiropodist may also advise an X-Ray referral to determine if ongoing pain is related to arthritis.
Surgery is the only method that will remove the bump on the side of the bunion. However, if one does not address the underlying foot weakness or mechanical issues contributing to bunions, the bunion may come back. Footwear, such as heels, will also contribute to the recurrence of a bunion.
If you are experiencing bunion pain, our downtown Toronto Chiropodist, Laura Desjardins, will help you each step of the way when dealing with your injury.
