Bunion Specialist

What is a bunion?

A bunion is a deformity that typically affects the joint at the base of the big toe. Two joints make up the big toe: the metatarsophalangeal (MTP) and the phalanx. A bunion develops along the MTP, where it meets the phalanx. 

As this bony bump grows, it pushes the big toe toward your four smaller toes. This gradual movement shifts the big toe out of alignment with the foot.

Without treatment, a bunion can cause your big toe to overlap with the rest of your toes. Walking, standing, and even wearing shoes can be painful and uncomfortable.

Bunionettes, which grow on the joint at the base of the pinky toe, can also cause chronic pain and diminish your mobility.

What are the symptoms of a bunion?

You can generally see a bunion just by examining your feet. You may notice an obvious bump sticking outward. Other signs and symptoms of bunions include:

• Pain when walking
• Sore joint
• Redness around the joint
• Reduced range of movement in your toe
• Corns and calluses on your toes
• Swelling

Once the bunion grows large enough, finding shoes that fit properly can be difficult. Accommodating a bunion typically requires wide-toed shoes that don’t constrict your feet.

What causes a bunion?

Certain deformities, inherited conditions, and injuries increase your risk of developing bunions. If you have a family history of bunions, you’re more likely to have them. Other common risk factors for bunions include:

Narrow-fitting shoes

By squishing your toes together, narrow-fitting shoes — especially high heels — force your toes out of alignment. 

Rheumatoid arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease that inflames the joints. Having this form of joint inflammation may also raise your risk of bunions.

What are the treatments for a bunion?

Before performing treatment, your podiatrist at Advanced Foot and Ankle Specialists takes X-rays to determine the extent of the deformity. Common nonsurgical treatments your podiatrist may recommend include:

• Wearing custom-made orthotic shoe inserts
• Avoiding narrow or high-heeled shoes
• Investing in wide-toed shoes
• Taking anti-inflammatory medication
• Using toe spacers

Severe bunions don’t always respond to nonsurgical treatments. If you have an advanced bunion that continues to limit your mobility, your podiatrist may recommend surgery. 

This minimally invasive procedure involves realigning the bones, soft tissues, and nerves to restore your foot function and reduce chronic pain.

To learn more about bunions, call Advanced Foot and Ankle Specialists or schedule an appointment online today.