Bunions

A bunion is an inflamed fluid filled sack (bursa), which forms on the side of the foot at the base of the big toe.

The joint protrudes because the toe is bent away at an angle, pushing into the other toes and causing them to bend unnaturally.

Sometimes the second toe is forced over the big toe, leading to the toes being crammed together and subsequently as a result of the pressure, to the formation of corns and calluses. Even a mild bunion can make you walk improperly which in turn can lead to pain in the foot arches, legs and back.

Causes:

Bunions are mainly hereditary but can, on a lesser extent, be caused by ill-fitting footwear. In early teens, bones are short and still developing and can mould to the shape of the footwear worn. Shoes, which are too tight and or have too high heels, cause the toes to be crammed into the front of the shoe and will, over time, cause permanent distortion as the feet develop. The bunion then forms on the joint as an attempt to protect against pressure.

Treatment:

In a small number of extreme cases, surgery can be performed, which involves straightening of the toe by removing part of the deviated bones. In most other cases, wearing a Green Cross Bunion Shield or pad, which fits the contour of the joint, will relieve pressure on the bunion.

Always select wide fitting shoes with a low heel.

Relief:

The following Green Cross products are suitable for Bunion relief:

• Curex Bunion Pads
• Chiropody Plaster
• Adhesive Moleskin Plaster
• Softi – Gel Bunion Shield
• Softi – Gel Bunion Pads