The foot is one of the most complex parts of the body. Each foot has more than 100 muscles, along with several bones, joints, ligaments, and tendons. All of these parts of the foot work together to enable the body to stand upright, walk, and keep its balance. Because the foot is made up of so many complex parts, it is susceptible to a variety of health issues. One such common foot condition is bunions.

If you would like to better understand this foot condition, here are three things to know about bunions.

1. Know What Causes Bunions

When bones from the front part of the foot move out of place, it causes a bunion to form. Bunions show up as bumps on the base of the big toe. In some instances, bumps can also form on the little toe. These smaller bunions are called bunionettes.

Bunions become worse when shoes are too tight or when high heel shoes are worn on a regular basis. Older people, overweight individuals, and those with flat feet or low arches are all more likely to get bunions.

2. Know About Complications Bunions Cause

Bunions can be painful, thus interfering with the ability to walk. Bunions can also cause limited movement of the big toe. Another complication of a bunion is that the big toe joint can become red and swollen. The more swollen a bunion, the harder it is to find shoes that fit properly.

Bunions can also cause problems with the second toe, including blisters and joint displacement. Due to these complications, it's important to seek treatment for bunions. If they aren't treated properly, the problem will only get worse.

3. Know How to Treat Bunions

Wearing shoes that fit properly, applying ice to reduce swelling, and wearing bunion pads to reduce the friction between the big toe and the shoe, are all effective ways to manage the pain and discomfort that bunions can cause. Some people can find pain relief caused by bunions by inserting an orthotic device inside their shoes. Still, others manage the pain with over-the-counter pain medications or cortisone injections.

While these treatment options can help to manage the symptoms of bunions, they will not make the bunion go away. The only form of treatment that will get rid of the bunion is a surgical procedure called a bunionectomy. You can learn more by contacting bunion treatment clinics.