Bunions

 Bunions, also called Hallux Abducto Valgus (HAV), are a deformity characterized by a lateral deviation of the great toe (hallux) with a subsequent medial prominence ("bump".) The medial prominence is from the underlying deviated prominent bone (not a growth), and sometimes can form an overlying bursitis which may add to the prominence (usually very painful and red.) Bunions form when your big toe pushes up against your other toes, forcing your big toe joint in the opposite direction. Over time, the abnormal position enlarges your big toe joint, further crowding your other toes and causing pain.

The main causes of bunions can be from genetics, tightly fitted shoes, or foot injuries. Bunions are more common in women. Bunions may be associated with various forms of arthritis, including inflammatory or degenerative forms, causing the protective cartilage that covers your big toe joint to deteriorate. An occupation that puts extra stress on your feet or one that requires you to wear pointed shoes also can be a cause. Bunions can not only affect the inner foot but also the outside of the foot at the base of the little toe.

Here are some treatment options for your bunions one is to have well-fitting wide enough shoes to give your feet more room. Another way is to have some padding to alleviate shoe pressure on "the bump." You can take oral or topical anti-inflammatory treatments to alleviate pain associated with the inflammation and bursitis. You can purchase orthotics to help control contributing biomechanical forces to reduce the rate of progression (especially important in kids). If none of these work you may consider surgery to correct the underlying deformity/deformities (important to also correct any contributing biomechanical forces at the time).

Bunions can be very painful and discomforting. Ways to prevent bunions are choosing footwear that fits correctly, especially low heeled shoes with plenty of space for the toes, is one of the main ways that bunions can be prevented. Getting orthotics if your prone to flat-footedness- this can prevent or delay bunions. If you think or know you have bunions get them checked out by your doctor or a specialist.