What are bunions?
Bunions, which are medically known as hallux valgus, are bony protrusions that form at the base of your big toe on the insides of your feet. Bunions are a progressive condition in which your bones shift, causing your big toe to drift toward your other toes, sometimes even traveling over or under your second toe.
Bunions aren’t necessarily severe, but they can cause considerable discomfort when they’re inflamed, and they can limit your footwear choices quite considerably. Not to mention, many find the bony protrusion and repositioning of the big toe unsightly.
What causes bunions?
Structurally speaking, a bunion forms in your metatarsophalangeal joint, which is the joint that connects your metatarsal to your toe. When the tiny bones in this joint fall out of alignment, your metatarsal can begin to shift inward, and the bones in your toe begin to shift toward the rest of your toes. Then the bony protrusion forms as your body’s way of protecting itself against friction.
While that’s the structural cause of a bunion, the reason this misalignment begins in the first place is typically due to several factors:
- Poorly-fitting footwear (think pointy-toed shoes)
- Structural abnormalities in your feet
- Genetics
- Pre-existing medical conditions, such as arthritis
Since bunions are progressive, you must seek help at Aloha Foot and Ankle Associates at the first sign of a developing bunion.
How are bunions diagnosed and treated?
Diagnosing a bunion may seem obvious, as the visual evidence is fairly clear. But Aloha Foot and Ankle Associates relies on advanced imaging to assess the degree to which the bones at the base of your big toe have shifted to come up with the best treatment plan for your unique situation.
In most cases, the team treats bunions using the following techniques:
- A change in footwear
- Orthotics
- Padding
- Anti-inflammatory medications
These measures are typically enough to halt or slow the progression of your bunion.
If your bunion is severe, your podiatrist may recommend a surgery called a bunionectomy to correct your toes’ positioning and remove the bony protrusion.
If bunions are interfering with your life, call Aloha Foot and Ankle Associates or schedule an appointment online today.
