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Bunions
/ Bunionettes
Definition
Bunions,
referred to in the medical community as Hallux Valgus, are one of the
most common forefoot problems. A bunion is a prominent bump on the
inside of the foot around the big toe joint. This bump is actually
a bone protruding towards the inside of the foot. With the continued
movement of the big toe towards the smaller toes, it is common to find
the big toe resting under or over the second toe. This causes a
common forefoot condition called overlapping toes. Some of the symptoms
of bunions include inflammation, swelling, and soreness on the side surface
of the big toe. The discomfort commonly causes a patient to walk
improperly.
Another type of bunion which some individuals experience is called a Tailor’s
Bunion, also known as a Bunionette. This forms on the outside of
the foot towards the joint at the little toe. It is a smaller bump
that forms due to the little toe moving inwards, towards the big toe.
Cause
Bunions are a common problem experienced mostly by women. The deformity
can develop from an abnormality in foot function, or arthritis, but is
more commonly caused by wearing improper fitting footwear. Tight,
narrow dress shoes with a constrictive toe box (toe area) can cause the
foot to begin to take the shape of the shoe, leading to the formation
of a bunion. Women who have bunions normally wear dress shoes that
are too small for their feet. Their toes are squeezed together in
their shoes causing the first metatarsal bone to protrude on the side
of the foot.
It is important for men and women to realize that wearing dress shoes
and boots, which are tapered in the toe area, can cause the bunion to
worsen to the point where surgery is necessary.
Treatment
and Prevention
In
the early stages of the formation of a bunion, soaking feet in warm water
can provide temporary relief. The best way to alleviate the pain
associated with bunions is to wear properly fitting shoes. Shoes
designed with a high, wide toe box (toe area) are recommended for people
suffering from forefoot disorders, such as bunions. Shoes with rocker
soles will unload pressure to the bunion area. Orthotics are also
recommended for this condition to provide extra comfort, support, and
protection.
Other conservative treatments include using forefoot products designed
to accommodate and relieve bunions such as bunion shields, bunion night
splints, and bunion bandages. These conservative treatments can
limit the progression of the bunion formation, relieve pain and provide
a healthy environment for the foot.
If
the problem persists, consult your foot doctor.
Back
to List of Foot Conditions
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