Bunion
A bunion, medically known as hallux valgus, is often described by patients as a protrusion of bone on the side of the big toe joint. The bone that is protruding is the metatarsal bone. This condition is caused by muscle imbalance in the foot, which causes the big toe to point to the 2nd toe, instead of straight ahead. This deformity is progressive meaning it does worsen with time. The condition can worsen to the point that the big toe goes on top or bottom of the 2nd toe. This can lead to arthritis in the big toe joint.
Bunions are in part caused by genetics, passed down from generation to generation. Other factors that contribute to bunion formation are improper shoe gear, and irregular foot types. In some cases, trauma can lead to bunion development as well.
Symptoms usually occur during later stages, although some people remain asymptomatic through the entire progression of the bunion deformity. Usually, symptoms occur when wearing tight fitting shoes or high heels. Additionally, prolong standing can aggravate the symptoms.
Most of the time the prominence is visually evident with a protrusion noted at the big toe joint. However, to fully evaluate a bunion, x-rays are required. Since bunions are progressive, proper assessment can determine how quick the deformity may progress and prevent destruction of the joint.
Currently, there is no method of reversing a bunion with conservative therapy (non-surgically), although there are ways to slow the progression and reduce the chance of joint damage. The goal of non-surgical therapy is to decrease the symptoms
When is surgery needed?
If non-surgical treatment fails to relieve the pain and the bunion affects your quality of life, it is time to consider surgical options. There are over 100 different types of bunion procedures; a foot and ankle specialist can help determine the right procedure and tailor it based on an individual's level of activity and severity of injury.
A bunion, medically known as hallux valgus, is often described by patients as a protrusion of bone on the side of the big toe joint. The bone that is protruding is the metatarsal bone. This condition is caused by muscle imbalance in the foot, which causes the big toe to point to the 2nd toe, instead of straight ahead. This deformity is progressive meaning it does worsen with time. The condition can worsen to the point that the big toe goes on top or bottom of the 2nd toe. This can lead to arthritis in the big toe joint.
Bunions are in part caused by genetics, passed down from generation to generation. Other factors that contribute to bunion formation are improper shoe gear, and irregular foot types. In some cases, trauma can lead to bunion development as well.
Symptoms usually occur during later stages, although some people remain asymptomatic through the entire progression of the bunion deformity. Usually, symptoms occur when wearing tight fitting shoes or high heels. Additionally, prolong standing can aggravate the symptoms.
Most of the time the prominence is visually evident with a protrusion noted at the big toe joint. However, to fully evaluate a bunion, x-rays are required. Since bunions are progressive, proper assessment can determine how quick the deformity may progress and prevent destruction of the joint.
Currently, there is no method of reversing a bunion with conservative therapy (non-surgically), although there are ways to slow the progression and reduce the chance of joint damage. The goal of non-surgical therapy is to decrease the symptoms
- Change in shoe gear- wider shoes, more supportive shoes
- Padding
- Medications: nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen. In some cases, oral steroids may be used.
- Icing: apply a thin towel and then the ice, never put ice directly on the skin
- Injection therapy- rarely used unless it is due to bursitis (inflammation of bursal sac)
- Orthotics/Inserts
- Rest: switching to another activity that is not as high impact on the foot
When is surgery needed?
If non-surgical treatment fails to relieve the pain and the bunion affects your quality of life, it is time to consider surgical options. There are over 100 different types of bunion procedures; a foot and ankle specialist can help determine the right procedure and tailor it based on an individual's level of activity and severity of injury.