Did you know that bunion comes from the Greek word for turnip? A bunion is an enlargement of the bone at the base of the big toe. This bony bump may become red and swollen, resembling a turnip. As the bump becomes larger the big toe drifts further over toward the smaller toes.
Over time one may develop pain and stiffness in the big toe as well as skin irritation or corns between the big toe and the 2nd toe. The 2nd toe may even start to curl. Pain in the ball of the foot is also common in the presence of a bunion deformity.
Some causes of bunions include:
- Tight shoes. High heels and shoes with narrow toe boxes put excessive pressure on the big toe joint
- History of inflammatory arthritis, such as rheumatoid
- Certain foot types, for example those with hypermobility or excess motion. Foot type is inherited. So if you and Grandma Betty both have bunions, you can thank her for passing her foot type on to you!
There are many options when it comes to treating bunions conservatively. However, if you are suffering from progressive pain, despite conservative care, then surgical correction of the deformity may be necessary. The severity of the deformity will determine which procedure will give you the best result and the least chance for recurrence.
If you think you may have a bunion or have been suffering from one for years, we are here to provide a thorough evaluation and a wide range of treatment options.