DEFINITION
Bunions is another term for Hallux Valgus, one of the most common forefoot problems. Basically, it is a bulging bump on the inside of the foot around the big toe joint. This bump is actually a bone protruding towards the inside of the foot. With the continuous movement of the big toe towards the smaller toes, it is common to find the big toe resting under or over the second toe. This leads to overlapping toes.
Symptoms of bunions are inflammation, swelling, and soreness on the side surface of the big toe. The patient cannot walk properly.
Another type of bunion is the Tailor’s Bunion, also known as a Bunionette. This bump shows on the outside of the foot towards the joint of the 5th toe. It develops due to the 5th toe moving inwards, towards the big toe.
CAUSE
Bunions are mostly experienced by women. It can develop from an abnormality in foot function, or arthritis. The most common cause of Bunion is wearing improper fitting footwear. Tight, narrow dress shoes with a constricting narrow toe area can cause the foot to begin to take the shape of the shoe.
The toes are squeezed tightly together which causes the first metatarsal bone to protrude on the inner side of the foot. Wearing narrow tapering shoes can cause the bunion to worsen and surgery will be necessary.
Sometimes, an inherited biomechanical abnormality – such as flat feet – might eventually leads to joint dysfunction .
Other less common causes include Rheumatoid arthritis, neuromuscular disorders, and trauma.
TREATMENT
Primary treatment of this condition is to wear shoes that can accommodate the deformity. Shoes designed with a wide toe box are recommended. Orthotics might also be recommended in the case of flat feet. Lastly, surgery is usually the definitive option to correct the deformity.
If the problem persists, consult your foot doctor.