Bunion Treatment in Alexandria, VA
Your feet can develop problems after carrying your weight and sometimes having to fit into painful shoes. If you live in Alexandria, VA, and are tired of dealing with bunions, visit Advanced Pace Foot and Ankle Center, where Dr. Angelo Pace can assist you.
What Are Bunions?
Do you notice a bony bump forming at the base of your big toe? That misalignment is known as a bunion. It can happen when bones in the front of your foot move out of place, resulting in your big toe pulling towards your smaller toes. As a result, the joint at the base of your big toe will stick out and can become malformed without intervention.
Common Causes of Bunions
Unfortunately, some people may be susceptible to this foot condition due to the foot type they were born with. Injuries or stress are also culprits. That is why you may see professional dancers or athletes with this condition. Your footwear also plays a role in bunion formation, as narrow or tight shoes can pressure the toes.
Preventing a Bunion
The first step in preventing a bunion is wearing proper footwear. Whether it's work or dress shoes, avoid ones that are too tight and narrow in the toolbox. Your shoes should have enough room to move around without being squished on each other. Pay attention to stretching and exercising your feet as much as you do the rest of your body. Note any changes in your feet and see a podiatrist if you experience foot pain or changes in shape, especially if bunions run in your family.
How a Podiatrist Can Help
If you have bunions in Alexandria, VA, a visit to Dr. Pace can put you on a path to healing. Depending on the condition of the bunion, your podiatrist may start you out with medication to relieve pain or prescribe orthotics, which are custom inserts that can provide protective cushioning for your feet. Certain orthotics can also prevent your feet from moving further in different positions. If these non-surgical solutions don't help, there are surgical options to correct the deformity.
Minimally invasive surgery involves small incisions and can result in faster recovery and less pain for you. Certain cases may require the podiatrist to cut the bone, realign it, and use screws or pins to hold it in place during healing. Bone fusion prevents further movement of the big toe joint.