Our FAQ Has Fast Facts on Common Foot and Ankle Injuries in Las Vegas

A bunion is a bony deformity usually occurring around the big toe joint. Oftentimes they are very painful. The common belief is that bunions are caused by tight or ill fitting shoes, but actually, bunions are caused by a mechanical breakdown in the foot. Many times when patients have mild bunions and are not interested in surgery we use orthotics which will help stop the progression of the bunion. Surgery is the only permanent solution for bunions. Orthotics are used after surgery to help prevent the reoccurrence of the bunion.

Although some people think shoes cause bunions, they are actually the result of a faulty foot mechanic that allows too much pressure on the first metatarsal. The pressure slowly causes the metatarsal bone to slide outward, away from the neighboring bones, while your big toe tilts inward, toward the smaller toes. This results in a large, painful bulge on the side of your foot where your big toe meets your first metatarsal. Bunion deformities are actually quite common, and can cause a lot of discomfort. The bulge can make wearing normal shoes difficult and some activities uncomfortable. Although shoes don’t cause bunions, they—and anything else that puts abnormal pressure on the ball of your foot—can certainly make them worse. High heels and narrow footwear that squeeze your toes are especially known for this. Pre-existing issues like arthritis can make a bunion much worse as well. Bunion deformities are progressive, too, so they will get worse unless they are treated. Let our experts at Absolute Foot Care Specialists help you take care of a bunion in your life and make sure you aren’t contributing to them. Call (702) 839-2010 or use the website to reach our Las Vegas offices.