Common Foot and Ankle Problems & Treatments
Bunion Deformities

General Information

A bunion is a bony prominence on the side of the foot at the base of the big toe joint. There is progressive movement of the big toe outward toward the other toes. The term Hallux Valgus is the medical name for this condition.

Causes

You are usually born with a foot type that leads to bunion formation. Flat feet with increased flexibility and abnormal mechanics are most likely to form bunions.

Tight shoe gear and high heels can increase the deformity and pain.

Other causes of bunions include osteoarthritis, gout, rheumatoid arthritis, trauma, and neurovascular disease.

Symptoms of a bunion

  • The most common complaint with bunions is pain that develops over the bony prominence due to shoe pressure or pain during activity.
  • The size of the bunion doesn't necessarily correlate with the amount of pain. Some bunions are very small and hurt terribly. Others are very large and cause minimal pain.
  • A red, inflamed area can develop over the “bump” called a bursa. With ongoing pressure, the inflammation can cause throbbing or swelling in the joint.
  • Shooting pains can occur when the bony prominence or swelling press against the nerve to the great toe.

What causes bunions?

You are usually born with a foot type that leads to bunion formation.

Flat feet with increased flexibility are most likely to form bunions.

Abnormal mechanics increase the bunion formation over time.

Other causes of bunions include osteoarthritis, gout, rheumatoid arthritis, trauma, and neurovascular disease.

Diagnosis

Physical examination by your podiatrist is the best way to diagnosis and treat your bunions. X-rays can be taken in the office to determine the severity of the deformity.

Treatment

Conservative options include padding, changing shoe  gear, and custom orthotics.

Surgical treatments are available.

Discuss with your podiatrist the best treatment option for you.

Treatment

How can bunions be treated?

Early treatment may include one or more of the following

  • Roomier or specially constructed shoes.
  • Orthotics (inserts) for the shoes.
  • Bunion pads, to reduce pressure and rubbing.
  • Resting and elevating the foot.
  • Taking anti-inflammatory and pain medications, such as aspirin or ibuprofen on a very limited basis.

If these methods fail, then surgery may be suggested. Basically, bunion surgery is performed to improve function or to prevent pain from occurring. When surgery is delayed in a symptomatic foot, greater amounts of arthritis can develop and the more complicated surgery can become.

Surgery is performed to improve alignment and function to the big toe joint. The large bump is removed and, sometimes, a cut is made into the bone, to move it to a more normal position. Screws, pins and wires can be used beneath the skin, to improve healing and results. Healing can range from 3-12 weeks, depending on the procedure.