Bunions



				28 Bury Road, Gosport,
			Hants PO12 3UD 02392 589898



		Chiropody & Podiatry Clinic


	“....Insist on a Degree Trained Podiatrist ”




	One of the most common complaints is "Hallux valgus", better known as a bunion. Normally, the big toe points straight ahead, but in this condition, it curves towards the others and the joint becomes swollen and tender, making walking difficult. The other toes become affected, and corns can develop. Some people are more likely to form bunions than others either because of genetics or as a result of a peculiar walking style. Wearing tight shoes all day certainly doesn't help, and can make the problem worse. Once a bunion has developed, you can limit further damage by wearing shoes with a straight insider edge, which should prevent excessive pressure on the joint.


	Bunions & other toe deformities The foot is roughly divided into three sections: the hindfoot or heel, the midfoot and the forefoot & toes. The function of the toes, especially the big toe, is to help us balance, and to propel us forward during walking or running. The 14 bones of the toes are among the smallest in the body, and, not surprisingly, things can and often do go wrong. Some problems begin in childhood and may go unnoticed. Others begin later on in life, perhaps as the result of injury or the added pressure of incorrect footwear.


			TREATMENT For treatment, it is best to consult a state registered chiropodist who may suggest protective pads to ease pressure on the joint, shoe alterations, or orthotics (special insoles) to help the feet function more effectively, or an appliance like a shield which fits over the tender joint for protection. Our chiropodist can also treat any corns which may developand in severe cases may advise surgery to realign the big toe, fixing it in a correct position. OTHER BIG TOE DEFORMITIES A complaint which is more common among men then women is "Hallux rigidus", where, instead of bending normally, the big toe stiffens and forms a bump at the top of the joint, making the 'pushing-off' motion in walking difficult. This often results from stubbing or injury to the toe, perhaps during sport. Women often suffer from "Hallux rigidus" as a result of persistent trauma to the joints from slip-on or shoes that are too tight. Wearing shoes with low heels and firm soles will act as a supporting splint. State registered chiropodists will be able to provide pads or strapping to stabilise the joint, or appliances (orthotics) to modify the way you walk. In severe cases, footwear may be modified or surgery may be indicated. SMALLER TOES Another common complaint is "Hammer Toes". The toe most usually affected is the second, which becomes bent up in an inverted "V" shape and can't straighten out during walking. Corns develop where it rubs against the shoe. Some people are born with clawing of the lesser toes, which might be due to muscle imbalance, and can lead to hammer toes. Too tight shoes and socks make the condition worse. You can help by investing in shoes that are "foot shaped" - with a straight inside edge, rounded toe and a toe box deep enough to remove pressure on the joints. Our chiropodistwill be able to prescribe treatment, appliances which straighten the toes, or, when necessary, may advise surgery to provide permanent correction. CURLY OR RETRACTED TOES Many babies are born with toes which don't lie flat, or are retracted. The problem generally clears up, especially if the toes are not too restricted in the early stages by tight shoes and socks. If the problem continues, muscle strengthening exercises may help, or silicone orthoses may be needed to correct the complaint.


				[Home] [where we are] [about us] [appointments] [treatments] [price list] [Gift Vouchers] [beautician]