In simple terms a bunion is a prominent bump on the inside of the foot around the big toe joint. When some of the bones in the front part of your foot move out of place, it causes the tip of your big toe to get pulled toward the smaller toes and forces the joint at the base of your big toe to stick out.
The National Health Interview Survey found that hallux valgus and bunions were reported as the third most common foot problem in the United States.
A bunion can develop at any time throughout life but it is more common in later life and in females.
Alternative names for a bunion or bunion deformity are hallux valgus, or even more specifically hallux abductovalgus.
In Pedorthic biomechanical terms, hallux valgus is a subluxation of the first metatarsophalangeal joint with deviation of the great toe towards the second and accompanied by an enlargement of the medial first metatarsal head. Subluxation is a partial dislocation of a joint that is produced when motion is contrary to its plain of motion or exceeds the range of motion of the particular joint.
• Bunions are often hereditary. People who have flat feet are also more prone to develop them.
• They can also develop from a foot injury, foot stress, or even the way you walk.
• Ill-fitting shoes that are too tight, high-heeled or too-narrow may also contribute to developing a bunion.
• Other causes can include inflammatory diseases and neuromuscular conditions.
• Bulging bump on the outside of the big toe
• Ongoing pain or pain that comes and goes around the big toe
• Redness and inflammation
• Developing hammertoes
• Callus or corn on the bump or bottom of the foot
• Stiffness and/or limited movement of the big toe
• Difficulty wearing regular shoes
Oftentimes, the foot is painful because the bunion becomes inflamed from shoe irritation, degenerative arthritis at the first metatarsophalangeal joint or both.
A Podiatrist performs a bunionectomy, which is a bunion operation to biomechanically correct the hallux valgus.
Change to well-fitting shoes that have wide toe boxes to take pressure off your toes and give them more space.
They can cushion the area and ease pain
Acetaminophen (Tylenol), ibuprofen (Advil) or naproxen sodium (Aleve), along with ice packs, can help with the pain and swelling.
Massage, physical therapy and some exercises can help to reduce pain and inflammation.
Shoe inserts can help to control alignment issues that may be contributing to bunion formation. Other devices like toe spacers and splints can also provide relief.
Shoes that can relieve the pressure caused by the bunion coming into contact with the shoe help reduce pain. This can be achieved by either having a custom molded shoe made or by wearing a shoe that will stretch and mold to the shape of the bunion.
When buying orthopedic shoes for yourself or a loved one, choosing the right size can be a challenge. Always remember that when sizing for swollen or feet that need more room, it is best to go wider and not longer.
Please review our sizing guide here.
If you have any questions please don't hesitate to email us at support@pedors.com or call 1-800-750-6729 if in the USA or +1 770 218 8282 if outside the USA.