A bunion (hallux valgus) is a painful, bony prominence on the joint at the base of the big toe. While it looks like a bump, it is truly a malalignment of the first bone of the great toe with the bone of the foot. Bunions are a failure of the soft tissue that holds the bones in the correct position the bones that make up the joint at the base of the big toe move out of alignment. Over time, the toe deviates towards the second toe and the metatarsal head becomes prominent on the inner border of the foot.
Symptoms of Bunions:
The most prevalent symptom of a bunion is the visible bump that appears on the inside of the foot. Other symptoms include:
- Pain and tenderness
- Redness and inflammation
- Hardened skin on the bottom of the foot
- A callus or corn on the bump
- Stiffness and restricted motion in the big toe, which may lead to difficulty in walking
What are the Treatment options for a Bunion?
Bunions are typically treated with conservative measures, although conservative treatment will not cure the bunion, it can reduce pain and keep the bunion from worsening. Conservative treatment options usually include:
- Changes in footwear
- Padding the foot
- Orthotics
- Icing
- Medications
- Surgery
Surgery may be recommended if, after a period of time, conservative treatments have failed to eliminate the pain or there is still difficulty walking. For more information about DISC Orthopedic care, visit us online here. More information can be found at the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons: Bunions.
