A bunion is a bony bump that forms on the joint at the base of your big toe. It occurs when some of the bones in the front part of your foot move out of place. This causes the tip of your big toe to get pulled toward the smaller toes and forces the joint at the base of your big toe to stick out. The skin over the bunion might be red and sore. Alliance Orthopedics can provide the most effective and customized treatment to address bunions. We understand every patient’s needs are unique, so we assess each case individually to determine an effective care plan.
Causes of Bunions
Bunions may be caused by a variety of factors, often involving a combination of genetic disposition and inappropriate footwear. It’s important to understand the main causes of bunions in order to identify the best preventive measures and treatments. Notably, bunions are not directly caused by shoes, but they can certainly be aggravated by them, particularly if the shoes are too tight or uncomfortable. Common causes of bunions include:
- Wearing shoes that are too tight or have high heels
- Foot stress or injuries
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Genetics or family history
- Certain foot types, like flat feet or high arches
- Inherited structural defect
Symptoms of Bunions
Symptoms of bunions may vary, from mere cosmetic concerns to severe pain, depending on the individual and the extent of the condition. Some people may go through life with bunions and experience minimal discomfort, while others may have significant pain that hinders their daily activities. The onset of symptoms is often slow and progressive but may be aggravated by certain activities or footwear. Here are some of the common symptoms associated with bunions:
- Persistent or intermittent pain
- A bulging bump on the outside of the base of your big toe
- Swelling, redness, or soreness around your big toe joint
- Corns or calluses — these often develop where the first and second toes overlap
- Restricted movement of your big toe if arthritis affects the toe’s joint
- Difficulty finding shoes that fit correctly because of the bunion
Treatments
At Alliance Orthopedics, our experienced team of orthopedic specialists is committed to providing individualized care and treatment plans tailored to each patient’s specific needs. We offer a range of conservative and surgical treatments to alleviate pain, reduce inflammation, and improve mobility. No matter your condition or lifestyle, our goal is to find the most effective solution for you. If you’re suffering from bunions, the first step is to schedule an appointment with our specialists for an evaluation. We’ll carefully assess your condition and recommend the best treatment based on your needs.
