Youth in our Nassau County, NY community certainly have an array of options when it comes to sports, but soccer always tends to be a popular choice. As spring emerges, and with summer not far behind, we know that many children are already looking forward to soccer camps and leagues. When juvenile bunions enter the picture, though, children may want to stay on the sidelines instead of getting in the game.
We want your children to be able to participate in favorite activities with their friends, so we are proud to offer juvenile bunion treatment here at Foot Specialists of Long Island. In addition to helping youth stay active and participate in sports, bunion care is also rather important for preventing the condition from getting worse.
Bunions, whether for adults or children, are progressive toe deformities. The “progressive” designation means that they do not improve on their own and will actually worsen when left untreated. The only way to truly correct a bunion is to use surgical procedures. However, nonsurgical treatment options can relieve symptoms and keep the deformity from becoming a bigger issue than it already is.
Conservative care for bunions in children includes:
- Shoe choices. Footwear that is excessively tight in the front (or models with higher heels) can lead to pressure on the affected toe joint. Instead, make sure your son or daughter wears pairs that have roomy fronts (wide, deep toe boxes). Remember, shoes should fit properly from the point of purchase – do not expect them to “stretch out” over time!
- Medication. Acetaminophen, aspirin, or ibuprofen won’t make the bunion get better, but they can relieve painful symptoms for your child. As always, contact our Massapequa, NY podiatrist office for the right type and dose your son or daughter can safely take.
- Ice. An icing regimen is another option that can help relieve painful symptoms. Use ice (wrapped in a thin towel or cloth) on the affected joint for 10 to 20 minutes at a time.
- Custom orthotics. Our office can prepare orthotic devices that work with your child’s unique foot structure and gait pattern. These can help redistribute forces on the foot, and keep them away from the affected joint.
If your son or daughter has developed a juvenile bunion, contact our Nassau County podiatrist office to find out how we can help. Give us a call at (516) 804-9038 for more information or assistance with scheduling an appointment. You can also arrange a visit for your child with Foot Specialists of Long Island online using our contact form.
