You've probably heard of bunions and may know that they are a foot condition, but, like many people, you might not be completely sure 
about what bunions are or how they form. That's why Dr. Peter Ocampo, your podiatrist in Windham and Scarborough, ME, is here to provide some information about bunions, how they affect his patients at Southern Maine Foot & Ankle, and what can be done to treat them.
Information about bunions
A bunion looks like a pronounced lump on the inside of the foot at the base of the big toe. Many people believe bunions are neoplasms, or new growths, but they are actually formed from the joint in that area as it protrudes outward over time. When the big toe is consistently pushed against the other toes, the joint begins to change shape and a bunion is the result. That's why most of your Windham and Scarborough podiatrist's patients are women – the cramped toe boxes and narrow width of many women's shoes put the toes in a crowded and uncomfortable position day after day.
Complications of bunions
Not all bunions cause problems for people they affect. But friction from the inside of your shoe rubbing against the bunion can be uncomfortable and lead to blisters or calluses. For those with arthritis or diabetes, bunions can be painful and difficult to treat. The degeneration of the cushioned discs between the joints can complicate the development of a bunion, and any injury that forms on the foot, no matter how minor it may seem, needs to be treated by your podiatrist immediately if you are diabetic.
There are various treatments that Dr. Ocampo can use to manage bunions; your experience will be tailored to your specific needs. If you have a bunion that is causing you pain, it's time to contact Dr. Ocampo at Southern Maine Foot & Ankle. We have offices in Scarborough, and Windham,ME to conveniently help you!