Jon T. Fitzgerald: Bunion Surgeries Common among Patients Young and Old
LAKE OSWEGO, OR, Feb. 19, 2013 /PRNewswire-iReach/ — Bunions are foot problem that typically affect older patients; however, many Americans may be surprised to learn that youth are just as prone to developing this uncomfortable foot condition. A recent article from FOX News reveals, “More than half of women get bunions, and women are nine times as likely as men to have the problem, according to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. Some doctors say the growing popularity of high heels and pointy-toed shoes, including among very young women, has helped increase the incidence of bunions.” Although bunions are common among people of all age groups, Dr. Jon T. Fitzgerald, practicing podiatrist at Ankle & Foot Care Clinic, explains the reasons why patients need to be more aware of the condition itself.
According to Dr. Jon T. Fitzgerald, the misconception of who is prone to developing bunions is also linked to a poor understanding of what the condition actually is. As the article states, “[A bunion] isn’t an overgrowth of a bone, as many people think…A bunion is formed when the big-toe joint, or the metatarsophalangeal, becomes misaligned, causing an enlargement of the bone or tissue around it that appears as a bump.” However, Dr. Fitzgerald notes that not every bunion is identical and may require unique treatment under the discretion of a trusted medical professional.
Jon T. Fitzgerald comments, “Although bunions are a very common problem, it is important to know that like snowflakes, no two bunions are alike.” As the article reveals, the development of a bunion is due to the combination of genetic and lifestyle factors. It states, “Although genetics plays a role in determining who develops one, motion and pressure, often caused by ill-fitting shoes, can trigger a bunion to form.”
Although some may be able to resolve a bunion issue early on with corrective footwear, the article reveals that some may require surgery–especially those who are particularly physically active. While there are many choices when it comes to bunion treatment, Dr. Jon T. Fitzgerald reminds all patients the importance of seeking out a professional opinion and resolution. Fitzgerald concludes, “Certainly some bunions are a surgical problem, however a great many can be relieved by non-surgical modalities. A visit to a local podiatrist will help to clear up any questions a patient may have.”
ABOUT:
Jon T. Fitzgerald is a board-certified podiatrist under the American Board of Podiatric Surgery. As a graduate of the California College of Podiatric Medicine located in San Francisco, Jon T. Fitzgerald offers nearly two decades of experience in this field. Currently serving patients residing in the Lake Oswego and Portland areas of Oregon, Fitzgerald is a trusted professional at the Ankle & Foot Clinic of Oregon. Alongside his trusted colleagues, Jon T. Fitzgerald offers numerous foot health services ranging from preventative foot care to reconstructive surgery.
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SOURCE Jon T. Fitzgerald
