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BUNIONS / ENLARGED JOINTS. A bunion is a common term for a medical condition known as Hallux Abducto Valgus. Hallux Abducto Valgus if the tilting of the toe away from the mid-line of the body. It is usually characterised by a lump or bump that is red, swollen and/or painful on the inside of the foot in and around the big toe joint. There are many causes of bunions such as hereditary factors but the primary one is tight, ill-fitting shoes which constrict the forefoot over a long period of time. High heels and constricting shoes are the primary causes of Hallux Abducto Valgus. There are many things that you can do to lessen the pain associated with this condition, certainly the first line of defense for this condition is good supporting shoes which have a wide toe box and a low heel. Useful treatments for bunions are to use anti-inflammatory medications such as aspirin and Ibuprofen gel/tablets, cold ice-pack compresses can be useful in reducing any swelling. To reduce the pressure over the enlarged joint it is helpful to use items such as gel pads and adhesive paddings as well as orthotics (a device to redistribute the weight more evenly over the sole of the foot). In conjunction with protective paddings, daily use of a good foot cream with periodical gentle use of a foot dresser will help to keep the skin soft and elastic. Of course if you have diabetes, vascular insufficiency, arthritis or a neuropathy (where the sensation to the foot is diminished) immediate care of a State Registered Chiropodist / Podiatrist is recommended. Although Cortisone injections and orthotics are helpful for this condition, it is usually a surgical procedure (bunion surgery) which eradicates the pain.
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