BUNIONS

A bunion is a bony bump that forms on the joint at the base of the big toe. A bunion is formed when the big toe pushes against   the next toe. This causes the tip of the big toe to get pulled toward the smaller toes and forces the joint at the base of the big toe to stick out. The skin over the bunion often becomes red, swollen and painful.

Bunions can also form as a result of the shape of your foot, a foot deformity or a medical condition, such as arthritis.

Smaller bunions (bunionettes, or Tailor Bunions) can develop at the base of your little toe.

Feet of a woman with painful Hallux Valgus[/caption]

Symptoms

The signs and symptoms of a bunion include:

• A bump on the inside of the base of your big toe
• Swelling, redness or soreness around your big toe joint
• Corns or calluses — these often develop where the first and second toes rub against each other
• Pain which can be constant or pain that comes and goes
• Limited movement or motion of your big toe

Causes of Bunions

Factors likely include:

• Genetic link or inherited foot type (your DNA)
• Strain or Stress of the foot caused from high wedges and heels which can make the condition worse
• Birth Deformities
• Injury
• Abnormal biomechanics- Biomechanics are the natural forces and strains placed upon the body in regards to movement
• Arthritis and inflammatory conditions.

Complications

Possible complications of bunions include:

• Bursitis/Capsulitis This painful condition occurs when the bursae, a small fluid-filled sac near your joints, get irritated and swollen.
• Sesamoiditis- the small bones underneath the big toe become inflamed.
• Calluses- An area of thickened skin that forms as a response to repeated pressure and friction.
• Ulcerations- an open sore or wound caused by increased pressure.
• Hammertoe- An abnormal bend that occurs in the middle joint of a toe, usually the toe next to your big toe, can cause pain and pressure.
• Metatarsalgia- This condition is a common overuse injury which causes pain and swelling in the ball of your foot.
• Neuritis- Numbness and Tingling from a nerve that gets pinched from the enlarged bone.

Prevention

Appropriate shoe gear might lessen the development of bunions.  Generally, a shoe with a wide toe box is recommended.  Shoes with pointy toes, which squeeze the toes tightly together are not recommended.  Avoid shoes that do not fit well and that allow some space between the tip of your longest toe and the end of the shoe.  Our foot doctors can recommend the best foot wear for you.

Custom orthotics are shoe inserts made specifically for your foot.  A cast or impression is made of your feet as it is placed in the correct or neutral position.  Custom orthotics can help prevent strain and stress on the feet which can help reduce some of the forces which contribute to the development of bunions.

By being proactive and seeking treatment by our specialists you can enjoy a more full and active life.  Give us a call today!

When to call AZ FEET FIXERS

Although bunions can be treated with conservative treatments surgical intervention might be necessary.

Call AZ FEET FIXERS, whose doctor’s specialize in the treatment of foot disorders, if you have:

• Big toe or foot pain
• A visible bump at the base of your big toe joint or little toe joint
• Decreased movement or range of motion of your big toe or foot
• Difficulty finding shoes that fit properly because of a bunion or bunionette.