Talk to Your Doctor About Bunions
If you find a bump forming on the joint that connects your big toe to your foot, you may be developing a bunion. Bunions are worsened by prolonged use of constricting footwear. You should talk to your doctor about your concerns if you are experiencing any discomfort or noticing any kind of growth forming on either foot. It is also wise to look into finding better fitting footwear. Read on to learn talk to your doctor about bunions.
Instructions
1. Examine your foot to see whether there are any visible growths forming on the joint that connects your big toe to the rest of your foot. This is where bunions grow. If there is no evidence of a growth present, you may have another forefoot condition. If it continues causing you discomfort or pain, bring it to the attention of a podiatrist or your family physician.
2. Make a note of how frequently you experience pain or discomfort, what triggers it, how severe it is and what you think might be the cause of it. Record any other symptoms of bunions. Symptoms can include skin irritation and displacement of the toes.
3. Ask your doctor to perform a physical examination of your foot to see whether she can pinpoint potential causes of your discomfort if no apparent cause is visible. You may require follow-up procedures, such as X-rays, to confirm or rule out the possibility of a bunion.
4. Tell your doctor about the first time you became aware of an abnormality of the affected foot. Being able to provide an approximate time frame will help your podiatrist or physician evaluate your symptoms and may expedite diagnosis.
5. Have your family physician refer you to a foot specialist, or podiatrist, if she suspects you might have a bunion or other forefoot condition. Be prepared to talk about your medical history or have your medical file forwarded to the podiatrist.
6. Get a referral to an orthopedic surgeon if your doctor determines that you do have a bunion that is recommended for surgical removal. Arrange a consultation with the surgeon to talk through the various surgical techniques available and to learn more about the risks and benefits involved with having corrective surgery performed to remove your bunion.
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