Bunion – preventing and treating one of the most common
foot problems
A bunion is a large, bony protrusion on the outside of the big
toe. Caused either by misaligned or excess bones, a bunion pushes
your big toe inward, toward your second toe. And because the bunion
protrudes from the side of the toe, it can cause a change in your
foot's shape, making comfortable shoes harder to find. Each
time your foot pushes off the ground, the bunion can cause you severe
pain. Here are some ways you can relieve the pain and keep your
feet bunion-free.
How are bunions caused?
The most common cause of bunions is forcing the foot to repeatedly
conform to an unnatural shape. Ill-fitting shoes, for example, may
flatten the foot and push the toe joint inward, past its natural
position. Joint diseases, like arthritis can also cause a bunion.
Sometimes, people are born with excess bone on the big toe that
causes a painful bunion to develop from the beginning. If you have
had bunions in the past, or would just like to prevent a bunion
from forming, it's important to wear shoes that fit properly
and don't push your feet into unnatural positions (like high-heeled
or pointy-toed shoes, for example).
- How are bunions treated?
- Orthopaedic shoes or inserts may be prescribed by your doctor
- Surgery to shave excess bone and reposition tendons
- Surgery to realign joint
- Surgery to remove and reposition a piece of bone
For those with mild or moderate bunions, inserts are a convenient,
non-surgical option. Recovery from bunion surgery is usually quick.
You may need to wear a bandage, splint, or surgical shoe to help
keep your bunion-free foot safe while healing.
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