Bunions
What is a bunion?
A bunion is commonly described as a bump on the inside of the big toe joint. A bunion is more complicated than that however. The bump that is visible on the inside of the big toe joint indicates underlying bone and joint changes that have gradually taken place over a period of time. As a bunion forms, the big toe gradually shifts toward the second toe and the big toe joint becomes misaligned, forming the bump on the inside of the foot.
The bunion deformity is a gradually progressive process. As the big toe continues to shift into the second toe, the bone structure changes and the joint continues to dislocate, causing the bump to become more prominent. Bunions can become symptomatic as the deformity increases over time.
What causes a bunion?
Bunions generally occur in individuals who have a family history of bunions or who have a biomechanical flaw in the structure of their feet. In other words, certain foot types are more predisposed to forming bunions over time.
Wearing ill-fitting shoes that crowd the toes does not cause the bunion but may cause it to become symptomatic or to progress faster.
Symptoms of Bunions
Symptoms may occur when wearing shoes that crowd the toes and/or have high heels. Symptoms may also occur from increased levels of activity or from activity that stresses the feet.
Symptoms may occur directly on the bump or within the joint or may occur in other areas of the affected foot away from the bunion itself.
Symptoms may include:
• Pain or soreness around the bunion
• Inflammation or redness
• Burning or numbness
• Painful calluses
• Sores between the toes
• Limited joint motion
Diagnosis
Bunions are usually noticeable and quite apparent depending on the severity of the deformity. Weight-bearing x-rays of the feet are taken to evaluate the extent of the deformity and the boney changes which have taken place. The feet are examined both in weight-bearing and nonweight-bearing to assess any biomechanical or structural problems that may be present and the patients gait may also be evaluated.
Treatment of Bunions
In mild, asymptomatic bunions Dr. Schroeder may recommend observation or periodic office visits to monitor the progression of the bunion. As the deformity advances and symptoms begin to occur, conservative treatment is aimed at easing the pain or correction of any biomechanical flaws. Conservative treatment cannot reverse or reduce any deformity that has already formed however. These options include:
- Change or modification of shoes
- Activity modification
- Biomechanical orthotics
- Pads
- Anti-inflammatory medication
- Physical therapy
- Injection therapy
When is surgery needed?
When a bunion begins to interfere with normal daily activities, it is time to discuss surgical options. There are a variety of surgical procedures for treating bunions and Dr. Schroeder will discuss the one that is most indicated in your particular case. In selecting the procedure or combination of procedures Dr. Schroeder will consider your symptoms, the degree of deformity based on clinical and x-ray exams, your age, your activity level and other factors. The procedures are designed to remove the bump of bone, correct the bone alignment and correct soft tissue changes that may have occurred. The overall goal is to eliminate pain and discomfort and to allow the foot to function more normally. The recovery period will vary depending on the procedure or procedures performed.
Call our office today at 563-391-2889 for an appointment if you would like to have your feet evaluated. Don’t let your bunion get worse before seeking treatment.