What are the symptoms of bunions?

The main symptoms associated with bunions include:

1. Bump at the base of the big toe
   This bony protrusion or bump at the joint where the big toe meets the foot is the hallmark symptom of a bunion. The bump becomes increasingly prominent as the bunion progresses.
2. Pain and tenderness
   As the big toe begins to drift inward toward the other toes, it can cause pain, soreness, and tenderness over the bunion area, especially with pressure from footwear.
3. Swelling and redness
   Inflammation around the bunion joint can cause swelling and redness, especially after periods of activity.
4. Hard callus or corn
   Due to friction and pressure, a thick callus or corn may develop over the bunion.
5. Restricted movement
   Over time, the stiffness and misalignment of the big toe joint can limit the range of motion and make it difficult to move the toe.
6. Pain in the ball of the foot
   Bunions can also cause pain and tenderness in the ball of the foot due to the abnormal stress distribution.
7. Numbness
   In severe cases, bunions can put pressure on the nerves, leading to numbness or tingling in the toes.
8. Joint redness and warmth
   Visible redness and warmth over the joint can occur from inflammation and friction.

Symptoms often start mild but can become progressively worse as the bunion grows larger and the foot deformity worsens over time if left untreated.

What are the causes of bunions?

There are several potential causes that can contribute to the development of bunions:

1. Heredity
   Having a genetic predisposition or foot type that is more prone to bunions is one of the primary causes. If bunions run in your family, you are more likely to develop them.
2. Abnormal foot mechanics
   People with flat feet, low arches, or excessive inward rolling of the feet (overpronation) place extra stress on the big toe joint, making bunions more likely.
3. Shoes that are too tight
   Wearing shoes, especially those with narrow toe boxes or high heels, that crowd the toes and force them inward can cause bunion formation over time.
4. Arthritis
   Inflammatory types of arthritis like rheumatoid arthritis can increase the risk of developing bunions.
5. Injury
   Trauma or injury to the foot that impacts the big toe joint may lead to a bunion later on.
6. Occupation
   Jobs that require a lot of walking or standing, especially in improper footwear, can contribute to bunion development.
7. Gender
   Bunions are more common in women than men, possibly due to footwear choices.
8. Age
   As you get older, years of abnormal stress on the joints makes you more prone to bunions.

While anyone can get a bunion, they are most frequent in women over the age of 60. Wearing proper shoes and treating any foot deformities can help prevent or slow the progression of bunions.

What is the treatment for bunions?

The treatment for bunions depends on the severity of the deformity and symptoms. Options include:

Non-Surgical Treatments:

1. Proper footwear – Wearing shoes with a wide toe box that don’t cramp the toes can relieve pressure and pain.
2. Padding and splints – Bunion pads or splints help redistribute weight and reduce friction over the bunion.
3. Medications – Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory drugs like ibuprofen can help reduce pain and swelling.
4. Injection therapy – Cortisone injections into the area may temporarily relieve inflammation and pain.
5. Physical therapy – Certain exercises can stretch and strengthen the foot to improve stability.
6. Orthotic devices – Custom shoe inserts or orthotics can help control abnormal foot mechanics.

Surgical Treatments:

1. Bunionectomy – This surgery involves removing the bony protrusion and realigning the big toe joint.
2. Osteotomy – The bone is cut and reshaped to straighten the angle of the big toe joint.
3. Arthrodesis – For severe bunions, this fuses the big toe joint to straighten it permanently.
4. Exostectomy – Just the bunion bump is removed without realigning the joint.
5. Arthroplasty – For bunions with arthritis, the joint may be replaced or resurfaced.

Surgery is typically recommended for large, painful bunions that don’t respond to conservative care. Early treatment is advisable to avoid further progression. The type of procedure depends on severity and the surgeon’s preference.