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Category: Bunions

18Jan

bunion

A bunion, usually a bony bump, that forms on the joint of the big toe. It means that some bones at the front of the foot have moved out of place, causing the big toe to pull towards the smaller toes, forcing the joint to stick out. The area around the joint is red and sore. The most obvious symptom of a bunion is a bulging lump at the joint of the toe. Avoid bunion surgery by seeking solutions immediately you notice bunion symptoms.

Causes of bunions

The exact cause of bunions is not known, but other likely reasons are

  1. Foot deformities at birth.
  2. Inherited foot type.
  3. Foot injuries and stresses.
  4. Some bunions have been linked to inflammatory rheumatoid arthritis.
  5. Tight or too-narrow shoes or high-heeled shoes cause bunions though some experts disagree with this.

Other factors that increase the risk of developing bunions are:

  • Wearing high heels is believed to be the number one risk factor. High heels force the toes to the front of the shoes causing the toes to cramp.
  • Wearing too narrow or tight shoes, likely pointed, cause bunions due to pressure on the toes cramped together.
  • The tendency to develop bunions might be a result of inherited anatomy or structure of the foot.
  • If you have an underlying condition, such as rheumatoid arthritis, it likely favors the development of bunions.
  • Adolescents, especially girls, are likely to get bunions. It is not known why, but doctors suspect the constant need to change footwear around this age as a contributing factor. However, bunions in adolescents and young people have not been linked to any underlying health condition.
  • Bunionette forms at the little toe’s joint, often known as a tailor’s bunion, is caused by the pressure put on the side of the foot. It often happens due to sitting cross-legged for long hours, putting pressure on the side of the foot leading to bunions near the pinky toes.

Unless you seek bunion treatment Houston, bunions are permanent. However, several measures will make you comfortable and slow bunion progression. Some measures include

  1. Maintain a healthy weight that does not put pressure on your feet.
  2. Buy the gel-filled pad or moleskin from a drugstore for the protection of the bunion. You need to test the moleskin for a short time to determine if it helps ease pressure and pain.
  3. Buy over-the-counter arch supports or shoe inserts that will position the foot correctly.
  4. Following your podiatrist’s guidance, use a splint at night to ease the discomfort and hold the toe straight.
  5. Take pain killers that are anti-inflammatory such as ibuprofen.
  6. Use massage, warm soaks, and icepacks regularly. If you have circulation problems, consult the foot doctor before using an icepack.
  7. Buy proper fitting shoes with a wide toe box with room for your toes. The heels of the shoes should be lower than two inches.

Immediately you notice changes in the structure of the toe or foot, visit a bunion doctor to avoid complications such as stiff toe, chronic toe pain, and foot/toe deformity.

Over at DeNiel Foot and Ankle Center  located in Houston, Texas, and covering surrounding areas like Cypress, and Katy, TX. Ejodamen Shobowale, DPM and her highly skilled staff provide personalized comprehensive care for all your podiatry and sport medicine needs. Whether the issue is foot-related like hammertoes, or toenail fungus or involves pain in the heel , nerves, or joints, Dr. Sho, as she is fondly called, can get you back on your feet in no time.

9Nov
Bunions can be corrected with surgery
Bunions can be corrected with surgery

A bunion can be painful, and affects the function and movement of the joint. A foot doctor might recommend surgical intervention to offer instant relief. Minimally invasive bunion surgery Houston

is becoming a popular option for treatment that started with the Kramer osteotomy and K-wire.

Why should you consider minimally invasive bunion surgery Houston? Minimally invasive surgery is preferred for mild and moderately painful bunions since

it facilitates easier recovery. For severe bunions, patients undergo open surgery to fix the symptoms of the condition.

The term minimally invasive encompasses a variety of incisional approaches and bunion correction methods. The techniques have been evolving over the past decades.

Best bunion surgeons successfully execute realignment using minimally invasive techniques. Depending on the severity of the bunion, several correction methods are used,

such as realignment osteotomy (bone cutting and bone shaving) or fusion that is bone mending.

Podiatrists use specialized equipment that allows bony correction through small incisional portals made on the skin of the foot.

Minimally invasive bunion surgery Versus bunionectomy

  • Use of high speed, small cone-shaped bone burs to shave and cut the bony segments, while bunionectomy uses large flat bone saws.
  • Tiny incisions made during the surgery allow quick recovery while bunionectomy is open surgery that takes significant time to recover.
  • Experience less after surgery pain that goes away after a short period, allowing you to back to your activities,but after a bunionectomy, you need physical therapy to build strength in your joints.
  • A short operative and recovery time while for bunionectomy you might not be able to walk for a few weeks.
  • Minimally invasive procedures offer bunion correction with minimal trauma and disruption of the overlying soft tissue and skin.

Are you the best candidate for minimally invasive bunion surgery?

When conducted by the best bunion surgeon, most bunions can be corrected using minimally invasive techniques. Moderate bunions are easy to correct,

as compared to large and small bunions. Large bunions might require stable fixation and translations, while small bunions pose a challenge orienting the surgical hardware.

A minimally invasive procedure is ideal for active and healthy patients although these surgical procedures are not the best for every bunion patient.

Arthritic patients may require different surgical procedures. Smoking is not a contradiction in best bunion surgery; however, it might delay the bone healing process after surgery.

For patients with osteoporosis, the bone quality might require a restrictive postoperative course.

Are there potential complications?

Minimally invasive procedures are not immune to post-surgical complications.  Some complications are more amplified, while other complications have fewer effects.

Other bunion surgery complications include infections, recurrence, regional pain syndrome, and joint stiffness.

A minimally invasive realignment with screw fixation has fewer complications and superior outcomes, making it the best bunionectomy procedure.

The techniques and procedures, continue to evolve due to the emergence of new surgical screws and specialized instruments.

Houston bunion surgery today allows tiny incisions, walking recovery, and an easy recovery process.

Over at the DeNiel Foot and Ankle Center in Houston , Texas, covering surrounding areas such as Katy, and Cypress, TX. For all your podiatry

and sports medicine needs, Ejodamen Shobowale, DPM and her highly qualified staff provide personalized comprehensive care.

Dr. Sho, as she is affectionately called, will get you back on your feet in no time, regardless of the patient’s issue.

She takes care of foot-related issues like hammertoes, toenail fungus , pain in the ankle, nerves, or joints.

22Mar

bunionAlso referred to as Hallux valgus, it is a painful bump which is bony and it develops in the big toe joint inside the foot. Besides, one can suffer from a tailor’s bunion which forms alongside the fifth metatarsal alongside the little toe. The development is slow, gradually changing the structure of the bones and the pressure causes the toes to lean towards each other.

Who’s prone to the development of a bunion?

Greater prevalence is in women because of the belief that they wear narrow, tight shoes that squeeze the toes, which favors the development of a bunion. The problem can be exacerbated because the body’s weight is pushed forward and the toes are forced in front. However, narrow shoes are not the underlying cause of developing bunions.

They also run in families, especially among people with flat feet, low arches, tendons, and loose joints are more prone to bunions.

The shape of the top of the first metatarsal bone is also a determinant because if it is too round it is more likely to deform upon squeezing.

Some occupations require lots of standing, dancing, and walking such as nursing, ballet dancing, and teaching. People in these occupations are more susceptible to bunions.

Pregnant women are more likely to develop bunions because hormonal changes cause the feet to flatten and ligaments loosen.

Arthritis patients are at a higher risk of developing bunions because it damages the cartilages within joints.

If you are looking for some expert advice on bunions, you may want to seek help from a podiatrist. Feel free to contact our office to make an appointment with our podiatrist. Our foot and ankle specialist, Dr. Ejodamen Shobowale will provide you with the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet

BUNION CORRECTOR INTERVENTIONS

Conservative method bunion treatment

Relieve pressure off the foot bunion by wearing the right shoes that are wide with enough room for toe movement. Good shoe choices include shoes made from soft leather, sandals, and athletic shoes.

Wear low heeled shoes not higher than an inch.

Protect the bunion with a gel-filled pad or moleskin; they are readily available at drugstores. Have spacious shoes to accommodate the pads.

Wear shoe inserts (semisoft orthoses) that will correctly position the feet.

Wearing a splint at night eases discomfort and holds the toe straight.

Use non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, warm soaks, and ice packs to relieve pain. Cortisone injection temporarily reduces inflammation.

Massage, ultrasound, and whirlpool may provide relief.

Bunion surgery

Bunions can be removed via a surgical procedure to correct the deformed area; the procedure is known as a bunionectomy.  There are different types of removal procedures which will remove the bunion and realign the big toe. A specialist determines the kind of procedure that should be done depending on how it developed and the size.

You are eligible for surgery if

  • Bunion pain restricts you from accomplishing daily activities.
  • If you can’t walk a few blocks without foot pain.
  • Even after medication and rest, the big toe remains swollen and painful.
  • If you cannot bend or straighten the big toe.

There are three main procedures a surgeon performs

  • Osteotomy where the big toe joint is cut to realign in a normal position.
  • Exostectomy where the bunion is removed without doing an alignment.
  • Arthrodesis where the surgeon replacing the damaged joint metal plates and screws in a bid to correct the deformity.

After a bunion removal, full recovery can take at least four months.

Keep track of the shape of the feet as they develop. Exercise the feet by picking small objects with your toes to strengthen them. Avoid high heels and wear shoes that fit properly without cramping your toes together. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Cypress, TX. Our Cypress office can handle all of your foot and ankle issues. We will provide you with the latest diagnostic and treatment methods for all bunion related issues.

19Sep

A bunion refers to a bony bump that is formed at the bottom area of your big toe, where it joins the foot bone to form a union known as the first metatarsal. When you have a bunion, your big toe points overly towards your second toe. It is a foot deformity that comprises of both soft tissue and bone.

This foot deformity can be very painful. One of the most common reasons for this condition is wearing shoes that are very narrow or small in the toe area. This can also be considered as a pressure-response impact. Women are more prone to develop this deformity as compared to men.

Bunion removal is a surgical operation that focuses on correcting the malformed region of the foot close to the big toe. The procedure of Bunion removal is also called hallux valgus correction, bunionectomy, or bunion operation. Hallux valgus is a Latin term that refers to ‘foot malformation’.

If non-surgical methods are not effective for relieving your pain, then bunion removal becomes an obligatory surgical procedure.

Opting for the Bunion Surgery

There are a large number of people who experience comfort and relief from the bunion pain by wearing larger shoes that have a broader toe cap. For example, a person with such a foot deformity may decide to wear sports shoes rather than high heels to ease the pain.

Using protective pads for cushioning the bunion also helps. If someone still experiences pain in spite of making these lifestyle changes, then he can choose to undergo a bunion removal surgery as it will prove to be an effective treatment procedure.

Houston foot specialists at DeNiel Foot and Ankle Center offer more than a hundred different forms of bunion removal surgeries to take out the baunion and to readjust the big toe. Factors like the size of the bunion and the way it has developed determine the type of surgical procedure that suits you.

bunion removal

Preparing for the Surgery

Before the scheduling of bunion surgery in Houston, you will need to undergo certain medical tests to assess your comprehensive health. These medical tests include:

1) The X-ray of your lungs

2) Monitoring your heart function for performing an electrocardiogram.

3) Examining your urine and blood to detect any underlying disease or ailment.

You will also be required to stop taking any medications for several days before undergoing the surgery, especially if you take any blood-thinning medicines such as aspirin.

Bunion surgery is generally an ambulant procedure and allows you to go home in several hours after the completion of the surgery. 

You can consult your doctor to determine the duration of fasting before the bunion surgery according to the time of your surgery. You must follow their instructions carefully to prevent any potential complications.

The Procedure of the Surgery

The majority of the people don’t require a general anesthetic before the surgery but you will be given a local anesthetic known as ankle block. It causes numbness below the ankle; however, you will be awake during the surgery. 

After you are entirely numb, the surgeon will take out the bunion and will make other required corrections to your foot.

The following are a few common types of bunion surgeries:

  • Osteotomy-

In this procedure, the surgeon will remove your big toe joint and readjust it to the usual position.

  • Exostectomy-

The bunion will be removed by the surgeon without making any realignment.

  • Arthrodesis-

The damaged joint will be replaced using metal plates or screws to repair the deformity.

After the surgery has been successfully done, you will be shifted to the recovery room and your foot will be bandaged. The surgeon will monitor your heart rate and blood pressure.

Recovery

The complete recovery takes about 4 to 6 months. During the first two weeks, you will have to wear a surgical cast or boot to protect your foot. You should also take care that the stitches don’t get wet.

After the surgical boot is removed, you will not be able to endure weight on your foot and will require crutches for support. Foot specialist Houston advises to ice your foot to speed up the healing process and minimize inflammation. Ensure to keep off your feet as much as possible.

Also, your foot will continue to remain swollen for a few months after the removal of a bunion. You should wear shoes that have a wider toe box to reduce the pain. Women must not wear high heels for about six months after the bunion surgery. You can consult your doctor for any physical therapy and exercises to strengthen your foot.

bunion treatment shoe, bunion removal surgery

Bunion removal surgery is extremely successful and the majority of people who opt for this surgery experience reduced pain in the foot and improved alignment of their big toe.

If you have any queries, please feel free to contact our office located in Houston, TX. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about bunion removal

 

1Jul

Bunions are large bony bumps at the base of the big toe. Medically known as hallux valgus, a bunion is a misalignment of the metatarsophalangeal joint, or big toe joint. The misalignment will generally worsen with time if left untreated.

The exact cause of bunions is unknown, with genetics seen as a potential cause. High heels and poorly-fitted footwear, rheumatoid arthritis, and heredity all seem to be potential factors behind the exacerbation of bunions. Women have been found to be more likely to develop bunions in comparison to men.

Bunions do not always produce symptoms. The best way to tell is if the big toe is pushing up against the next toe and there is a large protrusion at the base of the big toe. You may or may not feel pain. Redness, swelling, and restricted movement of the big toe may be present as well.

Podiatrists use a variety of methods to diagnose bunions. If there are symptoms present, podiatrists will first consider that it is a bunion. If not, a physical examination will be conducted to check function of the big toe. Finally, an X-ray may be taken to view the extent of the bunion and confirm it is a bunion.

Typically, nonsurgical methods are used to treat bunions, unless the bunion has become too misaligned. Orthotics, icing and resting the foot, roomier and better fitted shoes, taping the foot, and pain medication are usually utilized first. If the bunion doesn’t go away or causes extreme pain, surgery may be required. Surgeons will either remove part of the swollen tissue or bone to straighten the toe out.

If you have a bunion, it is recommended to see a podiatrist. The longer it is left untreated, the worse it may get. Podiatrists can properly diagnose and treat a bunion before it gets worse.

Red swollen bunion on the big toe joint of a foot.
1Jul

Red swollen bunion on the big toe joint of a foot.

Red swollen bunion on the side of the big toe. A protruding bone at the base of the big toe is referred to as a bunion. There are common symptoms that are associated with this condition. These typically include calloused and hard skin on top of the bunion, and swelling as a result of wearing shoes. Bunions are known to be caused by genetics, and many patients may develop this uncomfortable condition from wearing shoes that do not fit properly. There are several treatment options that may be effective, including wearing orthotics, taking painkillers, or using bunion pads. For severe bunions, surgery may be a viable option, if permanent removal of the bunion is warranted. There are measures that can be implemented that can help to prevent this condition from occurring. These include wearing shoes that have adequate room for the toes to move freely, and to avoid wearing high heels. If you believe you may have bunions, it is suggested that you seek the counsel of a podiatrist who can properly diagnosis and treat this condition.

If you are suffering from bunions, contact Dr.Eji Shobowale of DeNiel Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

A bunion is formed of swollen tissue or an enlargement of boney growth, usually located at the base joint of the toe that connects to the foot. The swelling occurs due to the bones in the big toe shifting inward, which impacts the other toes of the foot. This causes the area around the base of the big toe to become inflamed and painful.

Why Do Bunions Form?

Genetics – Susceptibility to bunions are often hereditary

Stress on the feet – Poorly fitted and uncomfortable footwear that places stress on feet, such as heels, can worsen existing bunions

How Are Bunions Diagnosed?

Doctors often perform two tests – blood tests and x-rays – when trying to diagnose bunions, especially in the early stages of development. Blood tests help determine if the foot pain is being caused by something else, such as arthritis, while x-rays provide a clear picture of your bone structure to your doctor.

How Are Bunions Treated?

  • Refrain from wearing heels or similar shoes that cause discomfort
  • Select wider shoes that can provide more comfort and reduce pain
  • Anti-inflammatory and pain management drugs
  • Orthotics or foot inserts
  • Surgery

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Cypress, TX. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about What Are Bunions?