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A bunion is an enlarged bone on the side of the
big toe that is angled outward. Depending on the severity
of the bunion, the big toe may be angled mildly or sharply
towards the other toes. Bunions often develop along with
other foot problems including hammertoes, corns and calluses.
If neglected, a bunion can become painful and interfere
with standing and walking.
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are many causes of bunions including: heredity,
foot injury, neuromuscular disorder, congenital
deformity (a deformity that is present at birth),
loose joint movement, abnormal foot motion while
weight bearing and poorly fitting shoes.
Most
bunions form as the big toe responds to abnormal
pressure on foot joints. A common example is the
foot rolling excessively inward during walking
or pronation of the ankle and foot. Over time,
this stress may cause the big toe to move towards
the other toes. This puts pressure on the big
toe joint and pushes it outward. Bunions may also
develop along with inflammatory joint diseases
such as osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis,
psoriatic arthritis and gout.
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Surgery
for bunions
A
bunion is a bony growth on the base of the big toe that
enlarges the joint. In a bunionectomy, the bump
is removed and soft tissue that is too tight is released.
Bunions
can also occur when the angle between the first
and second toe (intermetatarsal angle) increases beyond
normal. Sometimes bony growths may form, resulting in
irritation and swelling. In a metatarsal head osteotomy,
the bone behind the big toe is surgically cut and repositioned.
Any bumps will be remolded. Afterwards, your podiatrist
may recommend that you wear a surgical shoe or cast
for about six weeks until the bone is healed. During
the healing process, walking is advised, however, only
in a surgical shoe or tennis shoe.
Severe structural bunions result when the angle between the first and second toe (intermetatarsal angle) is excessive. In a metatarsal base osteotomy, a wedge of bone is removed from the base of the first metatarsal bone and the bone is repositioned. Wires or screws may be inserted to stabilize the bone. Absorbable pins and screws can also be used as fixation. Afterwards, your foot may be in a cast for six weeks.
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Conservative bunion treatment
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Roomy
and comfortable shoes |
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Self-adhesive
cushions to ease painful pressure and friction |
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Horseshoe
or donut foam pads |
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Shoe
inserts (orthotic devices) prescribed by your podiatrist
and molded to your feet to help your feet function
better |
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Medication
such as corticosteroid injections and pain relievers for temporary relief of symptoms |
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Physical
therapy, massage and acupuncture to increase motion
and decrease swelling |
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