If you have ever had, or currently have a bunion, then you know the pain it can cause. A bunion, when present, can be seen as a bulge at the base of the big toe. This bulge is an indication that the framework of that particular bone has changed, and this change has caused the bony prominence you now see. In addition to pain, the most common symptoms of a bunion include redness, swelling, possible numbness, a burning sensation, and thickening of the skin where the bunion is located. One of the causes of a bunion is shoes that do not fit properly. One way to prevent a bunion from forming is to find shoes that support your feet, but do not squeeze them or rub at your toes. Shoes that squeeze any part of your foot can cause a bunion. Another way to prevent a bunion from forming and provide you with relief from an existing one is stretching. Believe or not, something as simple as tight muscles can cause you to put repetitive pressure on your big toe. By simply stretching your calves and hips on a consistent basis, you can prevent this unnecessary condition. When a bunion is forming, there are a couple of ways you can prevent it from getting any worse. First, you can add some extra padding with a special cushioned pad that covers the base of the big toe to absorb some of the pressure. Secondly, you can apply ice to the area several times a day in order to reduce inflammation. Besides ill-fitting shoes, there are a couple of other causes of bunions. You may be prone to them because of the foot type you inherited. In this case, you will have to be extra careful to monitor this part of your foot, and you must be vigilant about wearing the right footwear. It is also possible for an injury to make you more susceptible to a bunion. As with many orthopedic conditions, you must decide when the pain is too much to withstand and you must see a doctor. Bunions can grow in size and become so painful that it is difficult to even wear shoes. Another factor to consider is your quality of life. Is the pain significant enough that it has stopped you from completing everyday task or activities you enjoy? If this is the case, you need to consider seeing a doctor who may refer you to an orthopedist who specializes in treating injuries and deformities of the skeletal system. If you're in need of a Colorado Springs podiatrist for treatment of a bunion, contact Dr. Kerry Berg of Intermountain Foot & Ankle Associates, PC, at 719-594-9920. Resources: http://www.aofas.org/footcaremd/overview/Pages/Adult-Foot-Health.aspx http://www.aofas.org/footcaremd/conditions/ailments-of-the-big-toe/Pages/Bunions.aspx http://www.foothealthfacts.org/footankleinfo/bunions.htm http://orthoinfo.aaos.org/topic.cfm?topic=a00155 http://collingchiropractic.blogspot.com/2009/03/how-to-prevent-bunions.html via Posterize
A bunionectomy, in the simplest of terms, is an operation to remove a 
Hairless Feet or Toes - There is nothing to be happy if you do not have any hair growth on your feet or toes. This means poor blood circulation, most often caused due to vascular diseases. It also becomes difficult to feel a pulse on the feet, which is a very bad indication of foot health. Frequent Foot Cramping - If you have frequent foot cramping then you immediately need to diagnose your foot problems. You might be having a calcium, potassium or magnesium deficiency in the body. In this case, you need to include foods that include all the above nutrients in your diet for healthy feet. And if you want to get temporary relief from such foot problems then you might just massage the area gently. Cold Feet - This is another poor foot health sign that shows a circulatory problem. It might be caused due to smoking, high blood pressure, anaemia or heart diseases. And if you are diabetic then the nervous system damage caused by it may also be a reason behind such foot problems. Consult with a doctor and find out the reasons behind your cold foot.