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A bunion is a bony lump that develops on the big toe's joint. It happens when the bones at the front of your foot shift out of place. This pulls the tip of your big toe toward the smaller toes, causing the joint at the base of your big toe to protrude. The skin over the bunion may be inflamed and painful.
Wearing tight, narrow shoes may create or aggravate bunions. Bunions can also arise as a result of your foot's shape, a foot deformity, or a medical condition such as arthritis.
Smaller bunions (bunionettes) might form on your little toe's joint.
WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF BUNIONS?
A bunion has the following signs and symptoms:
- A bulging lump on the outside of your big toe's base
- Swelling, redness, or pain near your big toe joint
- Corns and calluses are common where the first and second toes rub against each other.
- Pain that is constant or that comes and goes
- Restricted movement of your big toe
WHAT ARE THE CAUSES OF BUNIONS?
There are numerous hypotheses on how bunions form, but the precise etiology is unknown. Potential factors include:
- Inherited foot type
- Foot strain or injury
- Deformities that are evident at birth
Experts disagree on whether tight, high-heeled, or too-narrow shoes cause bunions or merely contribute to their development.
Bunions may be linked to certain kinds of arthritis, notably inflammatory ones like rheumatoid arthritis.
WHAT ARE THE RISK FACTORS OF BUNIONS?
These variables may increase your chances of developing bunions:
High heels: When you wear high heels, your toes are forced into the front of your shoes, often crowding them.
Shoes that don't fit: Bunions are more common in those who wear shoes that are excessively tight, too thin, or too pointed.
Rheumatoid arthritis: This inflammatory condition can increase your chances of developing bunions.
Heredity: Bunions may form as a result of a genetic problem with the structure or anatomy of your foot.
WHAT ARE THE COMPLICATIONS OF BUNIONS?
Bunions may cause the following complications:
- Bursitis: When the little fluid-filled pads that cushion the bones around your joints become inflamed, it causes this painful ailment.
- Hammertoe: A toe with an irregular bend in the middle joint, commonly the toe next to your big toe, can cause pain and pressure.
- Metatarsalgia: Pain and swelling in the ball of your foot are symptoms of this illness.
HOW IS BUNIONS DIAGNOSED?
A bunion can be identified by your doctor by examining your foot. An X-ray of your foot taken after the physical exam can help your doctor determine the best method to treat it.
WHAT ARE THE TREATMENTS FOR BUNIONS?
Treatment choices differ according to the severity of your bunion and the amount of discomfort it produces.
Conservative treatment
Nonsurgical therapies for bunions that may ease pain and pressure include:
- Changing your shoes: Wear shoes that are wide and comfy, with plenty of room for your toes.
- Padding: Nonmedicated, over-the-counter bunion pads or cushions may be beneficial. They can act as a cushion between your foot and your shoe, relieving pain.
- Medications: Acetaminophen (Tylenol, among others), ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB, among others), or naproxen sodium (Aleve) can help you manage bunion pain. Cortisol injections may also be beneficial.
- Shoe inserts: Padded shoe inserts can assist distribute pressure evenly when you move your feet, alleviating symptoms and limiting the progression of your bunion. Some people can get assistance from over-the-counter supports, while others require prescription orthotic devices.
- Applying ice: Icing your bunion after a lengthy period of standing or if it becomes inflamed might help decrease pain and swelling. Before applying ice to your feet, consult your doctor if you have reduced feeling or circulation issues.
Surgical options
If non-surgical treatment does not relieve your symptoms, you may require surgery. Surgery is not advised for cosmetic purposes; rather, it is advised when a bunion gives you recurrent pain or interferes with your everyday activities.
There are numerous surgical methods for bunions, and no single technique is ideal for every case.
Bunions can be treated surgically in a single treatment or in a series of procedures. They could include:
- Getting rid of the swelling tissue around your big toe joint
- Straightening your big toe by cutting a piece of the bone
- Realigning one or more forefoot bones to a more normal position to repair the incorrect angle in your big toe joint
- Permanently joining the bones of your afflicted joint
You may be able to walk on your foot immediately following a bunion treatment. Full healing, on the other hand, can take weeks to months.
After you've recovered, you'll need to wear correct shoes to avoid a recurrence. Expecting most people to wear narrower shoes after surgery is unreasonable.
Discuss with your doctor what to expect after bunion surgery.
HOW CAN BUNIONS BE PREVENTED?
Choose your shoes wisely to help prevent bunions. They should have a big toe box with enough of room between the tip of your longest toe and the end of the shoe.
Your shoes should fit your feet without squeezing or pushing any area of your foot.