Many people, including celebrities, suffer from bunions, a deformity of the foot that can be caused by different factors. Bunions tend to affect women more commonly because of ill-fitting shoes such as high heels. Genetics also plays another factor. The condition occurs when the big toe, or hallux, leans outward toward your other toes, leading to an enlarged joint. Bunions can often rub against tight-fitting shoes, leading to pain and discomfort. Prevention is vital in ensuring that the bunion does not progress, as surgery is one of the only options to treat them.
Bunions can be very troublesome if they are not treated correctly. If you are having problems with your bunions contact Dr. Jeffrey Conforti of New Jersey. Dr. Conforti will treat your foot and ankle needs.
What is a Bunion?
A bunion is formed of swollen tissue or an enlargement of boney growth, usually located at the base joint of the toe that connects to the foot. The swelling occurs by the bones in the big toe shifting inward, which impacts the other toes of the foot. This causes the area around the base of the big toe to become inflamed and painful.
Why do Bunions Form?
How are Bunions Diagnosed?
Doctors often perform two tests – blood tests and x-rays – when trying to diagnose bunions, especially in the early stages of development. Blood tests help determine if the foot pain is being caused by something else, such as arthritis, while x-rays provide a clear picture of your bone structure to your doctor.
How are Bunions Treated?
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Paramus and Clifton, NJ. We offer all the latest in diagnostic and treatment technologies to meet your needs.
A group of researchers from Staffordshire University have conducted a study in which they discovered that the frequency of active foot ulcers can in part be attributed to “a significantly lower heel pad stiffness,” compared to patients who did not have ulcers. The study observed 39 diabetic patients who suffered from neuropathy, loss of feeling from nerve damage. The new research results may help assist in preventative diabetic foot care. Those who have diabetes and whose foot problems are left untreated can develop life-threatening complications.
Diabetics must pay special attention to their feet to help prevent any complications. If you believe you are having problems with your diabetic feet, contact Dr. Jeffrey Conforti of New Jersey. Dr. Conforti will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Diabetic Foot Care
Diabetes affects millions of people every year. Diabetes can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, including the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.
The Importance of Caring for Your Feet
Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels because blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.
It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Paramus and Clifton, NJ. We offer all the latest in diagnostic and treatment technologies to meet your needs.
Read more about Diabetic Foot Care
Wearing high heels for prolonged periods of time no doubt can lead to pain and aches, but they can also lead to long-term problems. According to a 2006 study published in the journal Angiology, “the use of high-heeled shoes increases muscular effort during walking and diminishes the leg venous pressure compared with barefooted.” The study is suggesting that high heels not only realigns the structure of our backs and legs, but they may possibly contribute to vein problems, because blood flow is disrupted.
High heels can create a myriad of foot and ankle problems. If you have any concerns about your feet contact Dr. Jeffrey Conforti of New Jersey. Dr. Conforti will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Effects of High Heels on the Feet
High heels are popular shoes among women because they are associated with femininity. Despite their appeal, they can cause many health problems if worn too frequently.
What parts my body will be affected by high heels?
What kinds of foot problems can develop from wearing high heels?
How can I still wear high heels and maintain foot health?
If you want to wear high heeled shoes, make sure that you are not wearing them every day, as this will help prevent long term physical problems. Try wearing thicker heels as opposed to stilettos to distribute weight more evenly across the feet. Always make sure you are wearing the proper shoes for the right occasion, such as sneakers for exercising. If you walk to work, try carrying your heels with you and changing into them once you arrive at work. Adding inserts to your heels can help cushion your feet and absorb shock; you can buy either full inserts or metatarsal pads.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Paramus and Clifton, NJ. We offer all the latest in diagnostic and treatment technologies to meet your needs.
Read more about the effects of high heels.
Jed Lowrie suffered from both ligament damage in his foot as well as a large bunion for over a month. Following the diagnosis, Lowrie underwent a season-ending surgery in August and is out on recovery. Lowrie is expected to be ready by next spring as he recovers for 3 months. Lowrie found that his foot injury affected his performance. “Even when I was off it for 10 days, the swelling and inflammation wasn’t going down. I knew there was something else going on besides the bunion. I thought I could play through it, but it’s such a complex area,” he said.
If you require surgical consultation, contact Dr. Jeffrey Conforti of New Jersey. Dr. Conforti will treat your foot and ankle needs.
When is Surgery Necessary?
Foot and ankle surgery is generally reserved for cases where less invasive procedures have been unsuccessful. Conditions that often require surgery are listed below:
- Removing foot deformities like bone spurs and bunions
- Severe arthritis that has caused bone issues
- Reconstruction for injuries caused by accidents or malformations
Types of Surgeries
The type of surgery you receive depends on the nature of the problem. Possible surgeries include the following:
- Bunionectomy for painful bunions
- Surgical fusion for realignment of bones
- Nerve removal for painful nerve endings
Benefits of Surgery
Surgery can provide more complete pain relief than other options and may allow you to finally resume full activity. Surgical techniques have also become increasingly sophisticated. Techniques like endoscopic surgery allow for smaller incisions and faster recovery times.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Paramus and Clifton, NJ. We offer all the latest in diagnostic and treatment technologies to meet your needs.