Bunions

What are bunions?

Bunions are bony bumps that form at the base of your big toe, often causing your big toe to lean toward your adjacent toe. They’re a common foot deformity that can lead to discomfort, pain, and difficulty in finding properly fitting footwear. 

Bunions gradually develop as the structure of your foot changes, causing the metatarsophalangeal joint (the joint at the base of your big toe) to become enlarged and protrude.

What causes bunions?

Reasons bunions can develop include:

Genetics

A family history of bunions can increase the likelihood of developing them due to inherited foot structures that predispose you to this condition.

Footwear

Shoes that are narrow, tight-fitting, or high-heeled can force the toes into unnatural positions, potentially exacerbating bunion formation or causing existing bunions to worsen.

Foot structure and abnormalities

Certain foot shapes or conditions, such as flat feet, low arches, or arthritis, can increase the risk of developing bunions.

What happens if my bunions go untreated?

If left untreated, bunions can result in various complications. They may cause persistent pain and discomfort while walking or wearing shoes, leading to limitations in your physical activity. 

Over time, bunions can worsen, causing your big toe to drift further toward your other toes, potentially causing hammertoes or other toe deformities. In addition, bursitis or inflammation of the bursa sac near the joint can occur, leading to increased pain and swelling.

How are bunions treated?

Your treatment for bunions will depend on the severity of your condition. Nonsurgical approaches include:

• Wearing properly fitting footwear with adequate space for your toes
• Using orthotic devices or shoe inserts to support your foot
• Applying ice packs to reduce inflammation
• Taking pain-relieving medications

Physical therapy and exercises might also help in relieving symptoms.

In cases where conservative methods fail to alleviate pain or your bunion becomes severe, the Ledesma Foot and Ankle team may recommend surgical intervention. Bunion surgery can realign the bone, ligaments, tendons, and nerves to correct the deformity and alleviate pain.

Surgical procedures vary, depending on the specific bunion and your condition. Your procedure may involve removing the bony bump, realigning the bones, or fusing the joint. 

If you have bunions or have noticed the beginnings of their development, request a consultation with the expert podiatrists at Ledesma Foot and Ankle today. Call or book online.