Do you know what a Hallux valgus is? Most people know it as a bunion, and it's one of today's most common foot deformities. At Capital Region Foot Care in Albany, NY podiatrists, Dr. Marc Ginsburg and Dr. Steven Lam, present sensible solutions to the pain, inflammation, and immobility bunions cause. They can help you feel good and move well once again.

Exactly what is a bunion?

It is a bony prominence or bump at the base of the big toe. Causing pain, swelling, redness, and deformities such as hammertoes, bunions commonly occur in women in their senior years and often are accompanied by arthritis and bursitis. However, Dr. Ginsburg and Dr. Lam see patients of all ages who have bunions.

What can you do?

If you're experiencing pain when standing or walking, see increasing redness at the base of your big toe and notice an increase in swelling, come to Capital Region Foot Care in Albany, NY, for a podiatric examination. Dr. Lam or Dr. Ginsburg will inspect your foot, watch you walk, and take digital X-ray imaging. With a confirmed diagnosis, the doctor will formulate a treatment plan to relieve your pain and optimize the function of your foot.

Treatments often include:

• Losing weight (researchers at the Cleveland Clinic say that obesity leads to bunion formation)
• Changing shoes to ones with ample arch support and adequate room in the toes
• Avoiding high heels as they increase pressure on the forefoot
• Wearing foot padding, such as Moleskin, on the bunion
• Resting (avoid prolonged periods of standing if possible)
• Elevating the foot above the level of the heart to reduce inflammation
• Wearing over the counter shoe inserts (or ask your podiatrist about custom-made orthotics)
• Stretch your toes periodically

The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgery states that when ordinary measures do not relieve pain and stiffness, or if other toes are impacted by the bunion, then a bunionectomy may be prudent. This surgery involves removing the bump and realigning the bones, nerves and connective tissues of the big toe. Are you ready? You can do something about your bunion. Contact Capital Region Foot Care in Albany, NY for a consultation with one of our podiatrists. Call (518) 465-3515.