A bunion is a bony, often painful protrusion on the big toe's base. If your big toe leans slightly toward your other toes, this can happen. The base of the big toe gradually presses outward against the first metatarsal bone, which is right behind it.
Bunions develop at a joint. When you walk, your toes generally bend in that direction. When you have a bunion, your entire body weight sits on it every time you take a step. Walking can be painful. A bunion can also cause calluses to form since your shoe is likely to brush against it.
Causes and Risk Factors of Bunion
Foot problems usually appear in early adulthood. As we age, our feet widen and the difficulties worsen.
Bunions can be caused by a variety of factors, including:
- Bunions can run in families.
- Structure of the feet. Bunions can be caused by a weak or improper foot structure.
- The length of one's legs. If one of your legs is longer than the other, a bunion on the big toe of the longer leg is possible.
- Bunions are more frequent in those who have certain forms of arthritis. This is especially true for inflammatory disease like rheumatoid arthritis.
- Bunions may be exacerbated by wearing high heels or tight shoes. This is why they occur more frequently in women than in men.
Diagnosing Bunions
Make an appointment with a podiatrist if you experience pain when walking in flat shoes that should be comfortable (a foot specialist). That could be a bunion or another issue.
Your foot will be examined by your doctor. They may want to take an X-ray to determine the best course of treatment for your bunion.
Therapy for a Bunion
Your doctor may advise you on how to relieve the pressure and pain. These are some examples:
- Wearing DrLuigi medial shoes which offer your feet enough room.
- Adding cushions or padding to act as a buffer between the bump and your shoes.
- Using over-the-counter pain relievers or anti-inflammatory medicines.
- Icing your bunion, especially if it hurts or you've been on your feet for too long.