“Complete Guide to Bunions: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatments”

Overview Types Causes & Risk Factors Symptoms Preventions Treatment

Overview

A bunion is a bony bump that forms on the joint at the base of your big toe. It occurs when some of the bones in the front part of your foot move out of place. This causes the tip of your big toe to get pulled toward the smaller toes and forces the joint at the base of your big toe to stick out. The skin over the bunion might be red and sore.

Types of Bunions

There are two main types of bunions:

Bunions: These occur at the base of the big toe.
Bunionettes or Tailor’s Bunions: These occur at the base of the little toe.

Causes of Bunions

Bunions are often caused by wearing tight, narrow shoes, but they can also develop as a result of the shape of your foot, a foot deformity, or a medical condition, such as arthritis.

Risk Factors of Bunions

Factors that may increase your risk of bunions include:

Wearing high heels or shoes that are too tight.
Having a family history of bunions.
Being diagnosed with a neuromuscular condition, such as polio.

Symptoms of Bunions

1. Bulging Bump: One of the most noticeable signs of a bunion is a prominent bump on the inside of the foot. This bump is actually the bony protrusion of the joint at the base of the big toe.

2. Swelling: The area around the bunion may become swollen. This is often a result of the inflammation and fluid buildup in the joint.

3. Redness: The skin over the bunion might become red and inflamed. This is usually due to the friction from shoes rubbing against the bunion.

4. Soreness: The bunion and the surrounding area can become sore and painful. The level of pain can vary from person to person, and it can be constant or come and go.

5. Persistent or Intermittent Pain: Pain can be persistent or come and go. It often becomes worse when walking or wearing shoes that crowd the toes.

6. Restricted Movement: If the bunion becomes severe, it may lead to restricted movement of the big toe. This can make it difficult to walk and can lead to further foot problems.

7. Corns or Calluses: These can develop where the first and second toes overlap. The skin thickens to protect itself from pressure or friction, forming corns or calluses.

8. Changes in Foot Shape: The change in the shape of your foot may make it difficult for you to find shoes that fit correctly. The pressure from your big toe pushing against your other toes can also lead to problems like hammertoe or mallet toe.

Preventions of Bunions

To help prevent bunions, wear shoes that fit properly. Shoes should have a wide toe box, and shouldn’t cramp or pinch your toes.

Diagnosis of Bunions

A doctor can identify a bunion by examining your foot. X-rays might be ordered to determine the degree of the bunion and to assess any changes in your joint.

Treatment for Bunions

Treatment options for bunions include self-care measures, using shoe inserts (orthotics), medications for pain and swelling, and sometimes surgical procedures.

When to seek medical attention ?

If the pain from a bunion is severe or if you notice a significant change in your ability to walk, it’s time to see a doctor.

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Bunions