What is a Bunion?
A bunion is a bone
deformity caused by an enlargement of the joint at the base and side of the big
toe (metatarsophalangeal joint). Bunions form when the toe moves out of place.
The enlargement and its protuberance cause friction and pressure as they rub
against footwear. Over time, the movement of the big toe angles in toward the
other toes, sometimes overlapping a third toe (known as Hallux Valgus). The
growing enlargement or protuberance then causes more irritation or
inflammation. In some cases, the big toe moves toward the second toe and
rotates or twists, which is known as Hallus Abducto Valgus. Bunions can
also lead to other toe deformities, such as hammertoe.
Many people with
bunions suffer from discomfort and pain from the constant irritation, rubbing,
and friction of the enlargement against shoes. The skin over the toe becomes
red and tender. Because this joint flexes with every step, the bigger the
bunion gets, the more it hurts to walk. Over time, bursitis or arthritis
may set in, the skin on the bottom of the foot may become thicker, and everyday
walking may become difficult—all contributing to chronic pain.
Wearing shoes that
are too tight is the leading cause of bunions. Bunions are not hereditary, but
they do tend to run in families, usually because of a faulty foot structure.
Foot injuries, neuromuscular problems, flat feet, and pronated
feet can contribute to their formation. It is estimated that bunions occur in
33 percent of the population in Western countries.
Treatment for
Bunions
Because they are
bone deformities, bunions do not resolve by themselves. The goal for bunion
treatment is twofold: first, to relieve the pressure and pain caused by
irritations, and second to stop any progressive growth of the enlargement.
Commonly used methods for reducing pressure and pain caused by bunions include:
- Protective padding, often made from felt material, to eliminate the friction against shoes and help alleviate inflammation and skin problems.
- Removal of corns and calluses on the foot.
- Changing to carefully fitted footwear designed to accommodate the bunion and not contribute toward its growth.
- Orthotic devices—both over-the-counter and custom made—to help stabilize the joint and place the foot in the correct position for walking and standing.
- Exercises to maintain joint mobility and prevent stiffness or arthritis.
- Splints for nighttime wear to help the toes and joint align properly. This is often recommended for adolescents with bunions, because their bone development may still be adaptable.
Surgical
Treatment
Depending on the
size of the enlargement, misalignment of the toe, and pain experienced,
conservative treatments may not be adequate to prevent progressive damage from
bunions. In these cases, bunion surgery, known as a bunionectomy, may be
advised to remove the bunion and realign the toe.
Bunions - Podiatrist
in Briarwood, Flushing, Kew Gardens, Queens
- Geoffrey Epstein, DPM
Visit our website: http://www.etlpodiatry.com
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