About Bunions
A bunion is an enlargement or bump around the joint of the big toe, often a swollen bursal sac or a bony growth. You may think you have a simple bump on the foot, but bunions are often much more serious than this.
Significance
Bunions affect the structure of the feet and can change the bone alignment. They are a serious medical condition, and you should consult a physician if you believe you have developed one.
Bunions are caused by tendons and ligaments that are not working as they should. Flat feet, structural abnormalities, complications from arthritis and even some neurological disorders can cause bunions.
Types
There are two major types of bunions: the serious, structural bunions and tailor's bunions. Tailor's bunions, sometimes called bunionettes, are small but noticeable bumps on the outside of the foot. These smaller and less serious bumps are often caused by ill-fitting footwear and often happen to those who develop bunions regularly.
Features
Bunions present many painful symptoms, including skin irritation, numbness, burning and swelling of the joint accompanied by redness and pain. When a bunion is present, the big toe often turns inward toward the second toe. Symptoms worsen when shoes are worn that increase pressure across the toes.
Although bunions occur in both men and women, they are seen most frequently in women due to wearing shoes that do not fit correctly or that do not offer proper support. High heels should be avoided if you have a tendency to develop bunions.
Prevention/Solution
Wearing properly fitting shoes can prevent or help treat bunions. Ice, medication and rest can also help treat painful bunions. However, these treatments are geared toward relieving symptoms rather than healing the bunions themselves. If the pain is severe, surgery is an option to correct the abnormality.
There are many orthotic products on the market that are aimed at correcting bunions, including toe separators and bunion splints, slings and cushions. These may be prescribed by a doctor if necessary.
Warning
If bunions are left untreated, they will become larger and increase the misalignment of the bones in the foot. This may eventually result in the big toe lying over or under the second toe or the development of hammertoe. Bunions are a progressive disorder and must be treated. Seek professional medical advice if you develop bunions to prevent them from worsening.
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