Bunions are one of the most common foot problems, with an estimated one-third of the adult population having them or likely to develop them. When bunions first develop, you may begin to notice a small, sore bump; however, over time, the MTP joint compresses and shifts out of place, allowing the bunions to grow into painful, inflamed, swollen protrusions.
On the other hand, there are non-invasive treatment options available – custom orthotics – working to slow or stop bunion growth altogether!
How to tell if a bump is a bunion?
People develop bunions for countless reasons; however, those unlucky enough to have a family who suffers from bunions are more likely to get them.
The best way to know if growth or bump on your foot is a bunion is to schedule an appointment with a qualified professional. Early evaluation and treatment can go an incredibly long way in preventing troublesome complications down the line.
Some signs you may have a bunion include:
- Your big toe is beginning to move inward.
- You have a bump at the base of your big toe (MTP joint).
- You feel joint pain or pressure around your big toe.
- You’re experiencing swelling, redness, inflammation, or soreness at the MTP joint.
- You’re starting to get corns or calluses.
- You’re finding it difficult to walk and find your balance.
How can custom orthotics help stop my bunions from growing?
Sadly, bunions do not disappear on their own; they remain in place unless removed surgically. Although, taking early action when you first notice the development of a bunion can help prevent further progression.
Custom orthotics offer a non-invasive treatment that may make it possible for you to avoid bunion surgery while reducing your pain and restoring foot function. These individually tailored shoe inserts are designed to improve your balance and alignment by dispersing weight and pressure more evenly. Due to this, custom orthotics help prevent further structural damage and provide relief from bunion pain; simultaneously, they stop your bunions from getting worse.
If you have a bunion or suspect one is developing, don’t wait to schedule an appointment with your podiatrist. Besides evaluating your bunion, your podiatrist will look for any additional underlying issues with the structure of your feet to help improve your foot mechanics!
Furthermore, beyond custom orthotics, as your podiatrist, we will provide additional tips on how to slow the progression of bunions so you can walk pain-free while avoiding more invasive treatments in the future!