What is bunion disease, and how is it treated?

A bunion is a bone deformity caused by an enlargement of the big toe joint at the base and side (metatarsophalangeal joint). Bunions occur when the toe moves out of position. Wearing shoes over this bony growth can be difficult, and the constant rubbing or friction can cause pain. Hallux abducto valgus is a condition in which the big toe rotates or twists as it moves toward the second toe. Bunions can aggravate hammertoes and other toe deformities. Every step requires the use of the big toe joint, and as the bunion grows in size, so does the pain. Arthritis and painful calluses are two other common side effects of joint displacement. A bunionette is a bony protrusion at the lateral fifth metatarsal head, also known as a tailor’s bunion or the metatarsus quintus valgus. When both feet grow at the same time, the patient is said to have splayfoot. It is the lateral opposite of the more common first metatarsophalangeal joint bunion (sometimes with spreading of the other metatarsals). For this, a bunion x-ray was taken.

Treatment for Bunions:

Bone deformities, such as bunions, do not go away on their own. The main goals of treating this type of foot disease are to relieve the patient’s pain and to prevent the deformity from worsening. First-line treatments include callus removal, cushioning, splinting, changing shoes, and orthotic devices. If a patient’s condition does not improve after receiving conservative treatment, surgical intervention is considered. A bunionectomy, also known as bunion surgery, may be recommended to remove the bunion and realign the toe. To reduce toe hypertrophy and straighten the joint, our podiatric surgeons employ a variety of surgical techniques. Apiplasty is a technique used by our specialists to treat moderate to severe bunions.The fact that 70% of bunions patients have a family history suggests that bunions have a significant genetic component. Adolescent bunions are one example of early-life development. The majority of bunions are caused by recurring microtrauma, such as wearing high heels with a narrow toe box. Purchasing wider shoes with adequate toe room and using other simple treatments to relieve pressure on the big toe will usually alleviate bunion pain.