A bunion is an uncomfortable bump that grows on the base of a big toe. Normally, the bump occurs when the big toe shifts to the smaller toe and the outside of the foot. This condition is known as hallux valgus, and with time the location of the tendons, ligaments, and bone will change and cause a bunion. In most cases, bunions can only be annoying bumps. However, The Woodlands bunions can significantly affect your overall life quality if not treated. Here are the common concerns associated with bunions.
Gait Dysfunction
Your big toe performs a major function of aiding you in maintaining the appropriate posture and balance. Once your bunion develops, there will be changes in how you spread your weight and how the foot strikes the ground. As a result, you will later experience knee and hip problems. Additionally, bunions can cause balance issues, particularly for the elderly.
Impaired Foot Function
With time, bunions can gradually grow until it is too huge to cause a serious impact on your footwork. You might also have inflammation, discomfort, tenderness, and redness at the big toe’s base.
Furthermore, the affected toe may put a lot of weight on the other toes, resulting in corns or hammertoes injuries. Moreover, you can try to ease the irritation by driving the weight off the affected joint and, unfortunately, end up having a condition known as metatarsalgia. As a result, you will experience chronic foot discomfort and have challenges walking, which makes wearing shoes uncomfortable.
Foot Arthritis
The joint of your big toe is at more risk of having arthritis because of the bunions. This joint misalignment causes unusual friction to your bones, resulting in cartilage injuries. Once the cartilage wears away, you will experience bone discomfort that will cause arthritis-related symptoms such as swelling and stiffness.
Frustration And Stress
Adding to the discomfort you experience due to the bunions, you will also have a lot of challenges when searching for the right shoes to wear. As a result, you can easily be stressed when you are required to shop for shoes that will not worsen your bunion or add to your discomfort. Ultimately, your shoe selection will be minimized, causing you to feel trapped and frustrated.
Sedentary Living
Bunions can affect your walking and active participation in physical activities. Therefore, you might consider having a sedentary, active lifestyle to avoid the pain. Unfortunately, the sedentary lifestyle gives you more chances of gaining weight and suffering from severe diseases. Moreover, you can be more susceptible to depression.
Experiencing Social Awkwardness
Bunions can cause you to wear sandals, open shoes, or even go barefoot. As such, you will have a lot of anxiety and stress, especially during shoe-free social gatherings. The bunions can even cause you not to attend the events where you will be required to show your feet, such as dinner dates for the ladies.
Ignoring a bump could mean you end up with more serious foot-related concerns like a hammertoe or bunions. However, such effects are avoidable if you notice a bunion and immediately visit a doctor. Consult your physician about the care options available for you.
