Bunion / hallux valgus

 

  You have a bump on your toe. Do this bump make your feet sore when you wear shoes? It could be a hallux valgus, commonly known as a foot bunion.

Why do we develop foot bunions?

This condition may be genetic in origin. It can also develop due to our activities, our occupation or the shoes we wear. Thus, you can avoid further aggravation if you undertake changes in your habits and start preventative treatments.

How to treat or relieve a bunion without surgery?

A variety of non-surgical treatments are available at Médecine podiatrique du Plateau. For example, our podiatrists can help you find the shoes best suited to the condition of your feet and the prevention of this problem. Custom-made foot orthotics, which are molded insoles prescribed to alleviate mechanical problems in your feet, are devices often used for bunions of the foot. In addition, your podiatrist may recommend a cortisone infiltration, a digital orthosis or a toe brace.

When to undergo surgery and who to consult?

When non-surgical treatments have been attempted, you have two options for surgery:

  1. Referral to a podiatrist with a postgraduate surgical residency. He or she has the skills to operate on a bunion that hurts and grows. Podiatrist fees are not covered by the Régie de l’assurance maladie du Québec or the Ontario Health Insurance Plan.
  2. Referral to an orthopedic surgeon. The specialist can then suggest surgery to remove the bump and properly realign the deviated bones.