Bunions
A bunion is a bone deformity caused when the big toe rotates and presses against the adjacent second toe, and the ‘bump’ behind the big toe becomes enlarged.
Bunions form when the balance of forces exerted on the joints and tendons of the foot becomes disrupted by years of abnormal motion and pressure over the big toe joint. There are several possible causes for this, including: faulty foot mechanics resulting from an inherited foot type; activities that place undue stress on the feet, for example pointe work in ballet; shoes that are too tight or cause the toes to be squeezed together, explaining the high prevalence of bunions among women.
Bunions are progressive, and may be visible for many years before they become painful. If allowed to progress, however, they can lead to arthritis developing within the joint, causing it to become stiff and pain to become deeper and more aching in character.
It is important to seek treatment early for bunions because once they progress past the threshold for early treatment options you may need surgery to repair the toe joint.
The primary goal of early treatment is to relieve pressure on the bunion and halt the progression of the joint deformity, so your podiatrist may recommend: Prescription orthotics are important in the treatment of bunions because although they cannot cure a bunion they can slow its progression and make your foot more comfortable within a shoe.
If you think you have a bunion, or if you have a family history of bunions, contact us.
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