What Are Bunions?

Fri Apr 21, 2023

Bunions affect millions of people worldwide. This common foot condition can cause pain, swelling, and difficulty walking. If you suspect that you or someone you know suffers from bunions, keep reading to learn. This article will examine bunions are, how they develop, and what you can do to prevent and treat them.

What Exactly Are Bunions?

Bunions are bony bumps that form on the joint at the base of the big toe. They occur when the big toe pushes against the second toe. This moves the joint out of place. Over time, this displacement causes the joint to become inflamed and painful, and a bony bump can form. 

If you notice a bulging bump at the outside base of your big toe, you more than likely have a bunion.

Causes of Bunions

Bunions are caused by a variety of factors, including:

  • Genetics: Some people are more prone to developing bunions because of their genes.
  • Footwear: Tight, narrow, or high-heeled shoes can put pressure on the toes and contribute to the development of bunions.
  • Foot injuries: Trauma to the foot can cause the joint at the base of the big toe to become misaligned, leading to the formation of a bunion.
  • Arthritis: Certain types of arthritis can cause bunions to develop.

Symptoms of Bunions

  • A visible bump on the side of the foot at the base of the big toe
  • Pain, swelling, or redness around the joint
  • Corns or calluses on the bump or between the toes
  • Difficulty moving the big toe
  • Numbness or tingling in the affected area
  • Corns or calluses caused from the big toe and second toe rubbing against one another 

What Types of Activities Cause Bunions?

  • High-impact sports: Activities such as running, basketball, and soccer can put tremendous pressure on your feet and contribute to the development of bunions.
  • Jobs that require standing or walking for long periods of time: If you have a job that requires you to stand or walk for long periods of time, you may be at a higher risk of developing bunions. It is important to wear comfortable shoes and take breaks to rest your feet if you work in a job that requires standing for extended periods.
  • Tight or ill-fitting shoes: Wearing shoes that are too tight or have a narrow toe box can put pressure on your toes and contribute to the development of bunions. Try to wear shoes that fit properly and have a wide toe box to reduce your risk of developing bunions. You can also look into orthotics
  • High heels: High heels can put a lot of pressure on the toes and lead to the development of bunions. If you wear high heels, try to limit the amount of time you spend in them or choose lower-heeled options.

Possible Complications of Bunions:

  • Numbness and tingling surrounding the big toe.
  • Bursitis: when small fluid-filled pads that cushion the bones near your joints become inflamed.
  • Hammertoe: an abnormal bend in the middle joint of a toe, causing it to resemble a hammer. It occurs in the second, third, and fourth toes.
  • Metatarsalgia: pain and swelling in the ball of your foot.
  • Arthritis: In some cases, bunions can contribute to the development of arthritis in the affected joint. The abnormal positioning of the big toe can accelerate the degeneration of the joint, leading to pain, stiffness, and reduced joint function.
  • Reduced Mobility: As bunions progress, they can limit the range of motion in the affected joint. This can make it difficult to walk, run, or engage in certain activities, impacting your overall mobility and quality of life.

Treatment for Bunions

If you have bunions, there are several treatment options available, depending on the severity of your condition. These include:

  • Changing your footwear: Wearing comfortable, roomy shoes that don’t put pressure on your toes can help alleviate pain and prevent the bunion from getting worse. Look for shoes with a wide toe box and avoid high heels or shoes with a pointed toe.
  • Using orthotics: Custom-made shoe inserts can help redistribute pressure on your foot, reducing pain and preventing further damage. Your podiatrist can create orthotics specifically designed for your foot to ensure they are effective.
  • Taking pain relievers: Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help alleviate pain and inflammation caused by bunions.
  • Surgery: In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to realign the joint and remove the bony bump. This is typically only recommended if other treatments have not been effective.

Preventing Bunions

While bunions can be difficult to prevent entirely, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk of developing them. These include:

  • Wearing comfortable, well-fitting shoes that don’t squeeze your toes
  • Avoiding high heels and shoes with a pointed toe
  • Stretching and exercising your feet and toes regularly to keep them flexible and strong
  • Maintaining a healthy weight to reduce pressure on your feet

It is important to take care of your feet at any age to prevent bunions from developing. By taking preventative measures and being mindful of the activities that can contribute to the development of bunions, you can reduce your risk of developing this condition and maintain healthy feet for years to come. 

If you suspect that you may have a bunion, be sure to consult with a podiatrist to determine the best course of treatment for your specific needs.

When to See a Podiatrist for Bunions

A podiatrist can evaluate your condition, provide an accurate diagnosis, and offer appropriate treatment options. You should consult a podiatrist if you notice any of the following:

  • Pain: If you’re experiencing persistent or increasing pain in your feet, especially around the bunion area, it’s a sign that you should see a podiatrist. Pain can interfere with your daily activities and quality of life.
  • Difficulty Walking: If your bunion is causing difficulty in walking or limits your mobility, it’s advisable to seek medical attention. A podiatrist can assess the severity of the condition and recommend appropriate treatment options.
  • Swelling or Inflammation: If you notice significant swelling, redness, or inflammation around the bunion, it may indicate an infection or other complications. In such cases, it’s important to see a podiatrist to prevent further complications.
  • Toe Deformity: If your toe is becoming increasingly deformed or if you’re experiencing a drifting of the big toe towards the other toes, it’s important to have a medical evaluation. Progressive deformity may require intervention to prevent further deterioration.
  • Conservative Measures Not Helping: If you’ve tried conservative measures such as wearing proper footwear, using orthotics, applying padding, or using over-the-counter pain medications, but your symptoms persist or worsen, it’s a good time to consult a podiatrist.
  • Lifestyle Limitations: If your bunion is significantly affecting your lifestyle, such as being unable to participate in certain activities or causing discomfort during exercise, it’s worth seeking medical advice.

If you are experiencing any of the above, it is essential to see a podiatrist to get an accurate diagnosis and develop a treatment plan. By taking preventative measures and seeking proper treatment, you can relieve pain and reduce the likelihood of developing bunions in the future.

Consult a Podiatrist Today

Here at Appel Foot & Ankle Center, we offer the highest standard of care in podiatry and seek to make your visit stress-free and discover effective solutions for your foot pain. Make an appointment today and we will find remedies to resolve your foot and ankle problems so that you may live your life without pain and resume your favorite activities. You deserve to enjoy a quality lifestyle.

 

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I had been a patient of Dr Silverman for years. I met Dr Appel this morning, 1-3-22, at my 9am appointment. Bottom line, I was impressed!! Professional yet warm demeanor, easy to communicate with, willing to chat while addressing his professional duties. Thorough in his exam, not hurried at all, I felt very comfortable in his presence. As an aside, Denise and Devon are also exceptionally polite and have always treated me in a personal and professional manner. I shall look forward to continued visits with Dr Appel and his staff.

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Staff was very friendly and I hardly had to wait. The office was very clean. Doctor Appel took the time to discuss all treatment options and seemed to really know what he was talking about. Very caring and professional. Highly recommend!

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