Bunion is the deformity of the big toe that causes pain and difficulty walking. In people with diabetes, it is the result of poor blood circulation, diabetic neuropathy and other causes. It is also exacerbated by wearing ill-fitting footwear, stress, presence of conditions like arthritis, trauma, and in some cases congenital deformities.
Diabetes and feet – Diagnosis if bunions
In bunions, there is misalignment of the big toe. It leads to the big toe pressing against the inner toes and the protrusion of the big toe joint outwards. Involving the deformity of metatarsophalangeal joint, bunion is a progressive condition that causes pain, difficulty in movement, redness, inflammation, and tenderness.
Bunion is common among women and people with diabetes and obesity, and in order to diagnose bunions, there is need to perform tests in order to eliminate the presence of:
- Neuromuscular disorders
- Arthritis & Gout
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Previous sprains or fractures
- Nerve injuries
Apart from the tests done to eliminate the above mentioned conditions, the following tests are done in order to diagnose bunions
- Physical examination of the feet
- Feet x-ray
After these diagnostic tests are done, doctors would be able to determine the extent of damage in bunions. Depending upon the patient’s diabetes control and the presence of other ailments, a treatment plan for bunions are prescribed.
