What are bunions?
Bunions are hard, bony, painful bumps that develop on the inside of your toe joint. Bunions often develop slowly from pressure on your foot and toes.
As the structure of your foot changes, the bunion bump develops. Left untreated, bunions can cause permanent deformities to your toe and foot.
What causes bunions?
Many different factors can lead to the development of bunions. Some of the most common causes of bunions are:
- Improperly fitted shoes: especially high heels or shoes that pinch the toes together
- Inflammatory conditions: including certain types of arthritis
- Sports or exercise: long-term strain or pressure on the toes or feet
Genetics can also play a part, meaning you’re more likely to have bunions if a parent or close relative had them. Bunions are more common in women because of the shoes they wear and hormonal changes during pregnancy.
What are the symptoms of bunions?
A variety of symptoms indicate bunions. Some of the most common symptoms of bunions include:
- Inflamed skin on the side of your big toe
- Thick skin on the underside of your toe
- Pain that is persistent
- Trouble moving your big toe
Bunions can also cause the big toe to turn inward toward your other toes. You may develop calluses on your second toe as a result.
How are bunions treated?
Most people can heal from bunions without surgery. Your physician may recommend:
- Different footwear: wider shoes that support your feet and offer more room for your toes
- Padding: bunion shields that cushion the affected toes
- Orthotics: digitally created custom shoe inserts that help relieve pressure on your feet and support your toes
- Medication: nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications for pain relief and inflammation
If your symptoms don’t improve with non-surgical treatments, your physician may talk to you about surgery. Bunion surgery is common and helps to realign the toes to provide long-term structural support to your foot.
With proper treatment, it’s possible to relieve bunion pain and restore natural function and movement to your feet once again. To request a personalized consultation, call Metropolitan Foot and Ankle Specialists today or book an appointment online.
