A bunion, sometimes referred to as "hallux valgus," is a deformity that affects the
"first metatarsophalangeal joint," or "MTP joint," which joins the big toe to the foot.
When we are standing, the first MTP joint is essential for supporting and distributing
our body weight. Many people mistakenly believe that the big toe's bony protrusion
at the base is a bony growth when, in fact, it is the joint that sticks out as the big toe
bends towards the second. The joint frequently becomes painful, swollen, and rigid.
Finding shoes that fit properly might sometimes be challenging because to the
outward projection of the joint.
About 23% of adults suffer from bunions, which afflict women more frequently than
males. As a degenerative foot malformation, bunions often develop gradually over
time. Additionally, it cannot be reversed without surgery, even though this is only
necessary in extreme circumstances. Most patients may manage pain, stop the
advancement of the bunion, and avoid additional painful conditions like bursitis and
arthritis using conservative treatment options.
A "bunionette" is the name for a bunion that affects the joint at the base of the little
toe.
What Are Bunions Symptoms?
Bunions are a chronic condition that gradually worsen over time. Some warning
signs and symptoms are:
● pointing or bending inward toward the other toes with the big toe. This is
frequently the first symptom, and it begins as a minor aberration before
growing over time.
● the big toe's base protruding more than usual.
● At the base of the big toe, there is a noticeable bony protrusion.
● Redness and irritation of the skin near the bunion.
● inflammation and stiffness around the joint discomfort when walking or when
the bunion is squeezed
● reduced mobility or range of motion in the affected foot's first MTP joint.
Why do bunions develop?
Bunions can be brought on by any one of the following factors (or a combination of
them):
● Genetic tendency, whether it be for joint-related disorders, foot shape and
structure, or bunions in particular (i.e.: arthritis)
● wearing excessively small, pointed, or tight shoes
● wearing stilettos
● A flat arch
● Ballet or jogging are examples of activities that put too much pressure and
strain on the toes and joints at their bases.
● normal joint deterioration
● Arthritis rheumatica.
Bunions are more common in women than in males, despite the fact that elegant
high heels are fashionable. The joint at the base of our big toe bears up to 60% of
our body weight when we walk and up to three times that amount when jogging or
sprinting. Even more weight is placed on that joint when we wear high heels or
continually cram our feet into uncomfortable footwear, which can cause a bunion to
develop.
Once a bunion forms, wearing shoes that are too small or too tight will pinch the joint
and increase pressure, which will cause the bunion to enlarge.
How Can I Prevent Bunions?
Wearing the right shoes is the most practical and efficient way to prevent bunions.
This is possible by:
● Not wearing high heels (or at least restricting them to special occasions)
● Avoid wearing tight, pointed footwear because they place too much strain on
the big toe joint.
● wearing footwear with a wide toe box and adequate arch support
● Wearing DrLuigi medical shoes prevents the formation of bunions and
relieves symptoms such as pain in the feet
● When jogging long distances, especially, wear running shoes that are
appropriate for your foot shape and gait style. As a result, the biomechanical
stresses that cause bunions are diminished.