Bunions may start as harmless and present a merely cosmetic issue to your feet. As you age, they can make it more challenging to walk or accomplish simple, everyday tasks without experiencing discomfort. Over time, bunions begin to fill with a liquid, causing the area to become tender, which can be painful. Irregular bone development, structural problems in your feet, or wearing shoes that are ill-fitting or uncomfortable could put you at higher risk for developing bunions.
Dr. Marshall L, Lukoff, DPM, FAAFS, of Foot Care Specialists PC, is an expert podiatrist who provides treatment options and custom orthotics for bunions at Foot Care Specialists PC located in Quincy and Dedham, Massachusetts.
What are bunions?
Bunions are the result of abnormal foot structures inherited genetically or gait patterns, which lead to instability in the metatarsophalangeal joint (MTP). They form as a bony lump near the base of your big toe. When bunions develop the joint that connects your big toe to your foot (MTP) is misaligned, and forces against the rest go your toes. A profusion will form on the inside of your foot as a result.
The MTP is responsible for carrying a lot of your body weight when too much stress is put onto it, painful bunions form. Some other causes of bunions include arthritis, flat feet, or if you’ve experienced severe trauma that has resulted in foot deformities. More women than men experience bunions due to the prevalence of high heel use.
Some signs and symptoms of a bunion may include
- Premature drifting of your big toe inward
- A bump on the MTP joint or at the base of your big toe
- Joint pain or pressure around the big toe
- Redness, swelling, or soreness around the MTP joint
- Formation of corns or calluses
- Restricted movement or instability
Consider booking an appointment with Dr. Lukoff if you’re finding that the pain becomes more severe or if you’re experiencing decreased mobility.
How can custom orthotics help?
Custom orthotics are shoe inserts custom-made to support and correct foot problems you may be experiencing. Using computer analysis and X-ray evaluation, Dr. Lukoff will be able to diagnose your condition precisely. He will then create a custom orthotic designed specifically for the health of your feet. With the help of this state-of-the-art technology, Dr. Lukoff will be able to identify your pressure points and learn your precise gait correctly. Additionally, he will be able to help you strengthen areas of weakness, lowering your risk for injury while mitigating painful symptoms.
Walking without foot discomfort can provide more to your overall health than you might realize. With custom orthotics, you will be able to improve your balance while relieving knee, foot, and lower back pain. Custom orthotics can be recommended for people who are looking for enhanced food support. Patients who elect to invest in custom orthotics cite feeling more comfortable while walking for fewer periods, despite the presence of painful foot conditions like bunions or hammertoes.
If you’ve been suffering from a foot condition, custom orthotics could provide the relief necessary for you to become active again. Schedule an appointment with Dr. Lukoff if you are suffering from bunions or fear that they might be in the early stages of development. He will be able to evaluate if your condition is severe enough to warrant surgery or if you would be a good candidate for custom orthotics.
Call our office, or book an appointment online today.