Orthotics and bunions ( halux abducto valgus ) By Dr Les Bailey phd, DO,acopm,apta ( int part )

Nov. 7, 2012 - PRLog -- Dr Les Bailey looks at bunions and how orthotics may provide an early answer.A Les Bailey orthotics article, woodmansterne, Banstead, Surrey.

Bunions, or medically speaking, Halux abducto valgus, is an often painful condition where the bony framework of the big toe ( halux ) leans toward the second toe causing the characteristic bump on the medial foot at the base of the big toe.
The lump looks bigger as the area swells with the pressure of constant rubbing in the shoes tight toe box.
Women are often worse affected as the shoes chosen tend toward being tighter than mens shoes, and while this is not a CAUSE, can make bunions swollen and inflamed.
Like any condition, there is always a causative factor. Bunions do not simply land from outer space !
I have yet to see a case of bunions where pronation is not the underlying cause, and if we look at this from a biomechanical point of view, it becomes obvious that the inward pressure of the foot causes stress on the halux area, particularly where the bunion forms.
In turn, the bone swells and the big toe diverts inward toward the second toe.
This makes perfect sense, and explains why the swelling and pain occurs. After all, almost your entire weight lands on the area as you take each step.
When bunions are too far advanced, the surgical option is a wise one, and its success nowadays is remarkably high compared to earlier procedures, which did not enjoy a great success.
However, there is a better option if the bunion is caught early, and that is the use of prescription orthotics.
Its is logical that if the foot pronates, we use orthotics, and in doing so the orthotic returns the foot to perfect posture .
This takes all the pressure from the area, and shares it throughout the entire foot, taking away the cause of the bunions and preventing the problem progressing.
It really is this simple.
It is prudent to seek a practitioner who is well versed in prescription orthotics.
There is no sense in using "off the shelf" orthotics, as accuracy is an absolute must for this condition.
And a plus note is that pronation can cause a multitude of other problems such as sore knees, hips and lumbar spine misalignment, so these will be a truly great investment in your health.
Copyright, Dr Les Bailey, Les Bailey 2012
About Dr Les Bailey phd,DO, acopm.apta(int part)
He is author of "the laymans guide to foot and heel pain"
Email drlesbailey@yahoo.co.uk
Direct phone number 07801418080
Dr Les Bailey began in physical therapies in 1981,qualifying in remedial massage,and later going on to qualify as an osteopath.
He gained his phd from OIUCM for a thesis on the treatment of plantar fasciitis.
He was awarded a teaching/lecturing diploma from the northern school of osteopaths in 1993.
He also holds a diploma in foot biomechanics .
Dr Les Bailey works from his clinic near Woodmansterne,  Banstead in surrey.
Les bailey is happy to answer question regarding orthotics or physical therapies.Contact by phone or email
Les Bailey 2012