A bunion is formed by abnormal bone structure at the base of the joint, found on the big toe. A bunion will cause the big toe to lean into the second toe. If you do not use precautions to prevent the bunion from progressing, you can suffer from major foot complications.
Severe Pain
Pain caused by bunions can range from mild to severe. The pain of a bunion can come from many sources. Pains from tissue swelling or skin irritation are common occurrences. Bunions can also cause blisters or open sores. If sores become infected, then the area will become more painful and dangerous if not treated. Joint pain due to bone alignment shifting, can become so severe that a sufferer must rely on special footwear. To sooth discomfort, individuals will use wider shoes, orthopedic designed shoes, pads or spacers.
Stiff Foot
When the area around the joint becomes too swollen, range of motion in the foot can decrease. A stiff big toe or foot from a bunion could turn into osteoarthritis. This condition occurs when a lot of cartilage cause bones to rub together.
Foot Deformity
Because a bunion is a progressive disorder, if not taken care of, the condition can become worse. In the most chronic bunion cases, foot deformity causes major complications that require surgical treatment. Foot deformity can include hammertoes, clawed toes or ingrown toenails.
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