Bunions

What are bunions?

A bunion is a bony protrusion that forms on the joint at the base of your big toe. A bunion often occurs when your big toe presses against your next toe and irritates the joint, forcing it to enlarge and stick out.

A tailor’s bunion (bunionette) forms when your smallest toe, your fifth metatarsal bone, expands outwards and develops a bony growth.

Adolescents often develop bunions at the bottom of the big toe, and as they grow, the bunions worsen. Bunions are more common in women than men. The skin around your bunion might be sore and red, and your foot might appear distorted. Calluses can also form around the bunion.

What causes bunions?

The cause of bunions isn’t always definitive, but these bony growths have been associated with genetic defects, medical and inflammatory conditions like arthritis, and foot injuries.

Bunions can form when your body weight consistently falls unevenly on certain tendons and joints in your feet. Prolonged bursitis, which is inflammation of the fluid-filled sacs between the tendons and bones, can lead to bunions over time.

High-heeled shoes and other shoes that don’t fit properly can also cause or exacerbate bunions.

What are the treatments for bunions?

Bunions are permanent and can require surgical correction. Early treatment is typically centered around limiting or halting the progression of the bunion, relieving pressure and pain, dispersing inflammation, and restoring optimal functionality of your foot.

The Rogers Foot & Ankle Institute team conducts a physical exam and uses X-rays to view the bunions and any deformities of the bones in your foot. Once they reach a diagnosis, they might recommend a number of treatments for your bunion, including:

• Separators
• Custom orthotics
• Surgical intervention
• Orthopedic shoes
• Oral medications or injections to control pain and swelling
• Forefoot products like bunion shields, bandages, and night splints

How can I prevent bunions?

Choose comfortable shoes with wider insteps and softer soles to prevent bunions from developing. It’s also important to avoid shoes that are too tight-fitting, sharply pointed, or narrow.

If your bunion is causing you persistent pain in your foot or big toe, inhibits your walking, becomes an aesthetic problem, or makes it difficult to find shoes that fit properly, visit Rogers Foot & Ankle Institute s for quality podiatric care. Call or schedule an appointment online today to learn more.