Leading Podiatrist In Chattanooga Provides Bunion Solutions

By Jay Dy


Bunions are a common foot complaint, affecting up to 25% of men and around 50% of women at some stage of life. These bony protuberances can cause pain, swelling and impaired movement. If the disorder is not addressed, it can become severe enough to limit walking. A Chattanooga podiatrist helps bunion patients to stay active with safe and effective, non-surgical therapies.

A bunion is an enlargement of the metatarsophalangeal joint of the big toe. Bunions form after years of abnormal motion and excess pressure on the joint. They may have a genetic basis, but tend to develop after years of wearing fashionable footwear with pointed toes.

A bunion is a red, swollen, bony lump at the side of the foot. It causes the big toe to deviate towards the other toes. The area around the bulge tends to be painful, tender, stiff or numb. A sac of fluid known as a bursa may form over the protuberance. Callouses or corns may also develop. Bunions pain is exacerbated by narrow or inflexible footwear.

When patients with bunions visit the Chattanooga podiatry center, they are thoroughly assessed. The doctor examines their feet, reviews their symptoms and observes their foot mechanics. The angles between the bones are measured to evaluate the stage of the bunion and the foot is x-rayed to reveal any additional issues.

If bunions are identified in the early stages, conservative therapies can stop their progression. Toe spacers, splints and padding can be used to hold the foot in the correct position, reducing pressure on the joint. Custom made orthotics can make walking more comfortable. Ultrasound sessions help to alleviate foot pain and accelerate the healing process.

According to the Chattanooga podiatrist, symptomatic bunions can typically be prevented simply by choosing the right footwear. Feet should be measured to ensure that footwear is the right size. Shoes worn on a daily basis should be wide enough to allow toes to wiggle and have heels no higher than two inches.




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