Bunions

Hallux valgus

Bunion is a condition that affects the first metatarsal bone of the foot, otherwise known as the big toe, in which certain structural changes occur, due to improper foot care.

The primary change is the formation of a fleshy lump resulting from constant inward rotation of the big toe, causing the base to turn outward and form a visible bump around the toe joint.

Typically, the big toe turns inward, sliding under or over the smaller toes.

Once the deformity has taken place, constant friction and rubbing from shoes that no longer fit properly (or may have been the cause of the deformity in the first place) causes redness, swelling, and pain over the bump.

The cause is almost always due to tight fitting shoes, but heredity, ligament laxity, and trauma may also be risk factors.

The treatment for bunions involves wearing special shoes that have a wide toe, high toe box with extra depth, rubber soles, and uppers made of soft material. Painkillers that reduce inflammation such as NSAIDs (e.g., Motrin, aspirin, etc.), foot soaks, and massage also may help. Surgery is indicated if all else fails.

The elderly and those with diabetes, arthritis, poor circulation, and other chronic diseases should have routine foot checkups by a podiatrist or physician, and correct any foot problems like bunions, as soon as possible, in order to prevent future difficulties.