Bunion Treatment Ballarat
Our experienced Ballarat podiatrists provide advice, assessment, and treatment for bunions.
Are Bunions Causing You Foot Pain?
Foot problems have the potential to significantly impact daily life, which is why our podiatry services cover a broad array of foot conditions and treatment options. One common issue we see at our podiatric practice is bunions, which can be mild or severe in nature and may progress over time. Professional support for bunion treatment in Ballarat aims to help walking become easier and wearing shoes not so uncomfortable.
If bunions are left untreated, there is a risk that your foot structure may become significantly altered, leading to ongoing pain and reduced functionality. This may make normal activities seem difficult and overwhelming. Bunion surgery in Ballarat may become an option, yet one most patients want to avoid. If you are developing a bunion, or you have had one for years, please contact our team. We have extensive experience with bunion treatment and work with patients towards their goal of healthier feet.
What Are Bunions?
When there is a build-up of pressure on the big toe joint, there is the potential that a bunion may form. This appears as a lump on the inside of the foot at the base of the toe, which is caused by swelling and altered positioning of the toe. The big toe may start to move towards the smaller toes, which increases the size of the lump and may stretch and compress soft tissues.
Bunions, also known as hallux valgus, are a result of changes to the biomechanics of your foot. There are a number of factors that may cause this, including:
- Unsuitable footwear. This can include shoes that are too tight and constrict the toe area, as well as high heels. Bunions typically affect women more than men, and footwear choices are often the reason for this.
- Injuries. When sports injuries or problems such as plantar fasciitis occur, they may lead to changes to the structure of the foot and/or the way you move your foot. This may lead to increased pressure and/or changes to the position of your toes.
- Flat feet. If your foot rolls inwards as you step, pressure can increase on your toe joint, both structurally and inside your shoe.
- Genetics. Bunions are not a family trait, however, genetics impact your foot structure, which may increase your chances of a bunion developing.
- Hyper mobility. If your toe joints can move more than they should, the large toe may start to shift outwards and towards the other toes.
- Arthritis. This condition may affect the toe joint, which may lead to swelling, which may increase the pressure against footwear and/or change the way you move your feet.
Bunion symptoms?
Bunions typically start out as a small bump at the big toe joint, which usually increases in size over time. The direction of the toe then shifts so that it is no longer straight and the gap between it and the second toe decreases. Symptoms that may accompany these visible changes may include:
- Foot pain such as an aching through the foot arch and the inside of the ankle and lower limb, burning or aching pain at the big toe joint, and/or heel pain
- Redness, corns, calluses, and/or skin irritation on the bunion
- Plantar fasciitis may be present, as a result or a possible cause
- Changes to nail health, especially the big toe, if it is pressing against footwear
Treatment for Bunions
When it comes to treating bunions, the focus is on improving the alignment of the joints and soft tissues within the foot. This involves assessing your gait and foot structure, as well as evaluating activities and risk factors. When the underlying factors are understood, we can work on making changes and providing treatment.
Bunion treatment may include:
- Prescription of personalised exercise and stretches
- Manual therapy
- Custom orthotics
- Footwear and activity modification advice
- Padding to place over the bunion while wearing shoes
Your Bunions Questions Answered
Depending on the severity of your bunion, it may take an extended period of treatment to see improvement. This is because strengthening the foot and adjusting the position of joints can be tricky. However, taking steps such as footwear changes, padding, and activity modification may improve discomfort while working towards these long-term outcomes.
Shoes that have a wider toe box may give your toes and joints more space and reduce the pressure. Cushioning and arch support may also be beneficial, as is avoiding high heels.
Bunion surgery is typically kept as a last resort for severe cases that affect mobility. If conservative treatment has not resulted in improvement to comfort levels or functionality, we may suggest a referral to a specialist.
Why Choose Ballarat Podiatrist for Bunion Treatment?
Our podiatry team is passionate about supporting our patients in finding a better quality of life when it comes to foot and lower limb conditions. We look forward to meeting you and providing comprehensive assessment, intervention, and guidance.
High Quality Resources
At Ballarat Podiatrist , we maintain up-to-date, evidence-based equipment and tools at our clinic to deliver optimal services.
Professional Development
We are dedicated to improving our services, skills, and knowledge as we strive to cater for every patient's needs and goals.
Friendly Team
Our team loves to help our community and believe each and every one of our patients deserve individualised, respectful, and compassionate care.
Seek Professional Support to
Treat Bunions
If you are dealing with a bunion or are concerned your symptoms may indicate one is developing, please contact us to organise an initial appointment.
