A bunion is an enlargement of the joint at the base of the big toe, the metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint, that forms when the bone or tissue at the big toe joint moves out of place. This forces the toe to bend toward the others, causing an often painful lump of bone on the foot. Since this joint carries a lot of the body’s weight while walking, bunions can cause extreme pain if left untreated. The MTP joint itself may become stiff and sore, making even the wearing of shoes difficult or impossible. Bunions, from the Latin "bunio," meaning enlargement, can also occur on the outside of the foot along the little toe, where it is called a "bunionette" or "tailor’s bunion."

Causes of Bunions:

• Heredity
• Ill fitting shoes
• Trauma
• Faulty Biomechanics

Prevention:

• Wear comfortable shoes that conform to the shape of your foot.
• Wear shoes with a wide and deep toe box.
• Always fit the larger foot and have your feet sized each time you purchase shoes.
• If your bunion becomes inflamed and painful, apply ice packs several times a day to reduce swelling.
• Avoid high-heeled shoes over two inches tall.

Treatment:
The primary goal of most early treatment options is to relieve pressure on the bunion and halt the progression of the joint deformity. Talk with your FDFAC physician about which bunion treatment is best for you.

• Padding & Taping - Often the first step in a treatment plan, padding the bunion minimizes pain and allows the patient to continue a normal, active life. Taping helps keep the foot in a normal position, thus reducing stress and pain.
• Medication - Anti-inflammatory drugs and cortisone injections are often prescribed to ease the acute pain and inflammations caused by joint deformities.
• Physical Therapy - Often used to provide relief of the inflammation and from bunion pain. Ultrasound therapy is a popular technique for treating bunions and their associated soft tissue involvement.
• Orthotics - Custom shoe inserts may be useful in controlling foot function and may reduce symptoms and prevent worsening of the deformity.
• Surgery - When conservative treatments fail or the bunion progresses past the threshold for such options, podiatric surgery may become necessary to relieve pressure and repair the toe joint.