According to the American Podiatric Medical Association, 87 percent of women have problems with their feet that are related to wearing shoes that do not fit properly, including heels. “I was having calluses, and just, all sorts of problems with my left foot. And there was finally a solution,” said Susan Deming, a woman who had undergone a procedure to shorten her second toe. Other common procedures include removing bunions and injecting collagen into the balls of the feet for cushioning. Some women are even going as far as to request that their pinky toe be removed completely.  

Even though this is an uncommon solution, bunions themselves are a common problem women face. If you are experiencing toe pain or foot pain that you think might be related to bunions, it is recommended to seek the care of a podiatrist like Dr. Robert Parker of Parker Foot & Ankle. Dr. Parkercan examine your bunions, diagnose the condition, and provide the appropriate treatment options to you.

What is a Bunion?

A bunion is an enlargement of the base joint of the toe that connects to the foot. The enlargement is formed of swollen tissue or boney growth. This swelling is caused by a shifting of the bones in the big toe inward, impacting the other toes of the foot. The area around the base of the big toe may become inflamed, red, and/or painful.

Formation

• Genetics – People who are susceptible to bunions are often genetically predisposed.

• Stress on the Feet – Wearing improperly fitting shoes or running and walking with improper form may cause stress on the feet. Wearing high heeled shoes puts the weight from the body onto the toes, causing further stress and bone displacement.

For more information on diagnosis and treatment for bunions, visit our link below.

If you have any questions, please contact our office in Houston, TX.  We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.