What Are Bunions?


It’s typical for people to assume older individuals are more prone to bunions when in actuality, people of all ages and at any fitness level can develop them. Though, this foot condition is more common in women and, yes, older individuals. Bunions can develop as a result of an inherited defect, stress on the foot, arthritis, or from wearing tight, narrow shoes. Bunions are permanent unless surgically corrected. We at Mercer-Ocean Podiatry, PC want to help our patients alleviate the pain associated with this foot condition.




Bunions form when your big toe pushes against the toe next to it, forcing the joint of the big toe to grow and stick out more than normal. This area becomes inflamed, swollen, and radiates persistent or intermittent pain. You should see your New Jersey podiatrist if you experience constant pain in your big toe or foot, or if you notice decreased movement or a visible bump on your big toe joint. If you find it difficult to find shoes that fit correctly because of your bunion, this is another indicator. Women are more likely to develop bunions because of how their shoes are made. High heels, pointed loafers, and certain slip-on shoes all promote crowding of the toes.




If a serious case of bunions is left untreated, complications can arise such as:




- Hammertoe: A bending deformity of the little toes that gets worse over time.


- Metatarsalgia: Inflammation in the ball of the foot.


- Bursitis: Inflammation of the fluid-filled pads that cushion the knee joint.



Mercer-Ocean Podiatry, PC is located at two New Jersey locations for your convenience. You can find our Mercerville office at 2103 Mercerville-Whitehorse Rd and our Toms River office at 202 Rte 37 W Suite 4. For more information or to schedule an appointment, please visit newjerseyfoot.com or call our Mercerville office at 609-585-3200 or our Toms River office at 732-557-4266.


 



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