Bunions

A bunion is foot deformity affecting the big toe joint. The big toe increasingly moves towards the 2nd toe, narrowing the gap and ultimately pressing against it, or in more extreme cases, the big toe sits above or below the 2nd toe. Bunions become larger and wider with extra bone growing on the joint, making shoes difficult to fit. A painful fluid filled sac called a bursa forms on top of the joint again increasing the size of the lump. The bunion gets larger and the toe deviates more laterally with time until it becomes more painful and difficult to find shoes to fit. At this stage surgery for the bunion and misshapen joint becomes necessary.

Although bunions are can be caused by incorrect footwear, hyperpronation of the foot (ankles feet that roll inwards) is the main cause. Even if a person were to go barefoot, they could still develop a bunion if they had incorrect foot structure. In most cases bunions are hereditary because the incorrect foot structure that causes bunions is inherited. Bunions can affect anyone, regardless of sex or age. However, there is a high incidence rate among women due to high heels and other forms of inappropriate footwear, as well as those that spend long periods of time on their feet.

Treatment begins by first consulting Instep Podiatry. We are able to correctly assess your situation and prescribe the right course of treatment. This might include a footwear assessment and advice, biomechanical assessment and correction of incorrect foot structure, as well as advice on controlling pain and inflammation.

Want podiatry advice? Looking for podiatry treatment for your bunions? Contact us!