What are Bunions?
Bunions are an enlargement of bone or tissue that forms at the base of the big toe. It occurs when the big toe pushes against the next toe, which forces the big toe joint to become enlarged. It can also occur at the base of the little toe, also called a “bunionette”.
Causes of Bunions
Bunions develop over time and are most commonly seen in women due to footwear being tighter or restricting on the feet. Some activities are known to cause bunions, such as dancing, for the same reason. They can also be genetic or result from arthritis. Injury to the foot may also be a cause.
Symptoms of Bunions
Signs and symptoms for bunions include:
- Pain, especially while walking or wearing restrictive footwear.
- Swelling or redness in the joint.
- Visible bump protruding from the base of your toe.
- Restricted movement.
- Calluses or corns in the area where the toes are rubbing against one another.
Diagnosing Bunions
Whether or not to see a doctor depends on the severity of your symptoms. Some bunions don’t require any medical intervention, but when pain begins to affect the way you walk or your everyday life, you should see an experienced foot and ankle surgeon to have it evaluated. Your physician will do a physical examination of your foot and assess your range of motion. They will ask you questions regarding your personal and family medical history. In some cases, they may use X-rays to confirm the diagnosis, because X-ray imaging can indicate the severity of the bunion.
Treatment for Bunions
If your bunion isn’t severe, your physician may recommend more comfortable footwear to alleviate the stress on your foot. Some orthotic devices may also help relieve discomfort. Over-the-counter pain relievers may help reduce inflammation. Physical therapy is also a good option to improve the strength of your foot and potentially relieve symptoms. Bunion pads or splits may help cushion the bunion and help reduce friction. Corticosteroid injections may be recommended, although this is a temporary solution to help you find some relief.
If your physician determines that surgery is necessary, they will advise you on the best route to take depending on your medical history and symptoms. The severity of your bunion will determine the best surgical treatment. A bunionectomy can be performed to realign the bones in your foot, remove the bony protrusion, and correct the deformity.