Tag Archives: Swelling

Bunions – Identification & Diagnosis

Bunions are one of the more common foot ailments – more than 20% of 18 to 65-year-olds and more than 30% of seniors are affected. Research suggests individuals have a genetic predisposition for developing bunions, meaning you are more likely to develop them if your parents or grandparents had them.

Bunions are much more than just a bump; they are a serious and often painful deformity created by the big toe being bent towards the other toes instead of facing straight forward. Wearing tight shoes, injuries, and the above-mentioned genetic disposition are prime culprits. Other potential causes include:

  • Hypermobility and laxity within the foot
  • One leg being shorter than the other
  • Loose joints
  • Low arches
  • Arthritis
  • Flat feet

Identifying Bunions seems to be easy, but they can easily be confused with the following conditions:

  • Bursitis: painful and similar appearance; mostly temporary
  • Rheumatoid arthritis: painful and similar appearance; chronic
  • Gout: painful and similar appearance; temporary or chronic

Bunions develop slowly and become more difficult to treat over the years. Early detention might prevent surgery, so please don’t wait to contact your podiatrist if you identify a bunion-like swelling that won’t disappear.

Tips to prevent foot swelling during air travel

With the upcoming Labor Day holiday; many will be traveling by plane. Here are some tips to help ensure that your feet can enjoy the trip as well!

  • Remember to watch your diet. Foods with a high salt content can certainly lend to swelling in your feet. Be sure to drink plenty of water to keep your system   flushing out any additional toxins
  • Secondly, walk around. Getting up several times during your flight will give your feet the exercise needed to keep them energized, and the blood flowing properly.
  • Try to store your carry-on bag overhead. Certainly it is more convenient to have it at foot, but your feet really don’t want to fight for the space
  • Avoid crossing your legs. This is just another way to reduce the blood flow restriction to your feet, and continuing ample circulation.
  • Finally; try to wear more comfortable shoes. Slip-on shoes work the best because that can easily be removed and allow you to wiggle those toes and even give your feet a soothing massage.

So where ever your next destination may be; we wish you a safe and comfortable flight!

air flight

 

 

 

http://www.everydayhealth.com/foot-health/prevent-swollen-feet-during-travel.aspx