BUNIONS
What are Bunions?
Bunions are the increase in size of a joint with the deviation of a toe. Bunions can occur on the big toe or the small toe. It forms when your one toe pushes against your next toe, forcing the joint of your big toe to get bigger and stick out. The skin over the bunion might be red and sore.
Symptoms of Bunions
- A bulging bump on the outside of the base of your big toe
- Swelling, redness or soreness around your big toe joint
- Corns or calluses — these often develop where the first and second toes overlap
- Persistent or intermittent pain
- Restricted movement of your big toe if arthritis affects the toe
Causes for Bunions
Factors include:
- Flat Feet
- Foot injuries
- Poorly fitted footwear.
Bunions might be associated with certain types of arthritis, particularly inflammatory types, such as rheumatoid arthritis.
When to see a podiatrist?
Although bunions often require no medical treatment, see your podiatrist if you have:
- Persistent big toe or foot pain
- A visible bump on your big toe joint
- Decreased movement of your big toe or foot
- Difficulty finding shoes that fit properly because of a bunion
Treatments for Bunions
Treatment options vary depending on the severity of your bunion and the amount of pain it causes. Bunions treatment may involve:
- Exercise
- Footwear modification
- Orthotics
Is Bunion's treatment covered by private health insurance?
Call us to find out whether your bunion treatment is covered by your private health care provider. There are a few things to consider with your private health fund such as your level of cover, your policy waiting periods, annual limits and fund rules. It is important to know what you are up for prior to your visits to avoid unwanted, expensive surprises.