Bunions

What is a bunion?

Also called hallux valgus, a bunion is a bony bump that forms on the side of your foot at the big toe joint. This bump develops when your big toe leans toward the second toe and forces the bones out of alignment. 

Bunions develop at the joint where the long bone of your foot meets the first bone in your big toe. This is called the metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint. Smaller bunions that form at the little toe joint on the outside of your foot are called bunionettes. 

What are the symptoms of a bunion?

The most prominent sign of a bunion is a swollen bump at the base of your big toe. Other signs and symptoms of a bunion may include:

• Persistent or intermittent foot pain
• Swelling, redness, and tenderness around the big toe joint
• Stiffness and restricted mobility in the big toe
• Difficulty wearing shoes

Advanced bunions can dramatically alter the appearance of your foot. Your big toe may cross over or under the second toe and can even push the third toe out of alignment. You may develop rough calluses and corns where the toes rub together. 

What causes bunions?

Many factors contribute to a bunion. You may have inherited a particular type of foot structure that leaves you more prone to bunions, or a foot injury could alter the alignment of your bones. Inflammatory conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis, may also increase your risk of bunions. 

Wearing shoes that are narrow or have high heels may exacerbate this condition and cause a bunion to form more quickly. Many people successfully manage their bunion symptoms simply by changing to shoes that fit properly and provide enough space for the toes. 

How are bunions treated?

Your provider at Arizona Foot & Ankle Specialists may be able to detect a bunion by examining your foot. They may also take X-rays to fully evaluate your condition. 

Then, they discuss the best treatment options for you. In most cases, bunions improve with nonsurgical treatments, such as:

• Switching to shoes with a wider toe box
• Padding the bunion
• Custom orthotics
• Icing the bunion

If foot pain and symptoms persist despite changing your footwear and other nonsurgical treatments, your provider at Arizona Foot & Ankle Specialists may recommend surgery.

Don’t wait to seek treatment for a bunion. Call Arizona Foot & Ankle Specialists or book an appointment online today.