Proper foot care is essential when experiencing painful conditions and disorders. Take bunions, for instance, which is a common foot condition associated with lots of bothersome effects. The right treatment can relieve these effects and ensure good mobility, so here are a few key points to keep in mind if you suffer from bunions. 

What Are Bunions?

Bunions result from a deformity in the joint of the big toe. In this case, the joint will extend outward while the big toe points inward, toward the other toes. While there's no definitive cause of bunions, certain risk factors can increase the chance of you experiencing one.

The foot disorder is quite common in women and often results from tight, restrictive footwear. However, the issue can result from other foot conditions, such as problems with arches. It's also common among people who stand and walk a lot during the day, which is true of many professions. It can even run in families when weakness in the toe joint is passed down through generations. 

What Symptoms Should You Look For?

In addition to changing the appearance of your big toe, bunions are also associated with joint stiffness and discomfort. If stiffness and swelling become severe, you may also find it difficult to walk. In the case of substantial swelling, the size of the toe joint can make finding comfortable shoes challenging.

How Are Bunions Treated?

Foot care specialists prefer a conservative treatment approach when symptoms are mild. In this case, you may be encouraged to find comfortable shoes that aren't too restrictive, which prevents irritation to the big toe joint. Orthotic inserts are also beneficial for providing sufficient padding to the area. When symptoms disrupt daily life, surgery is another option. A podiatrist will use certain surgical procedures, such as removing a portion of the bone or fixing alignment issues affecting muscles and tendons, to relieve discomfort and improve mobility. 

When it comes to foot care you can trust, Choice Podiatry Associates is the natural choice. Along with treatment of bunions, these podiatrists can also address calluses, arthritis, heel pain, diabetic wound care, and many other issues. If you need assistance, feel free to schedule an appointment at one of two convenient Ohio locations today. Reach the Kenwood office by calling (513) 984-1911, or contact the Bridgetown location at (513) 574-2424. You can also learn more about their services offered by visiting the website.