What is a Bunion?
A bunion is a structural deformity of the bones and the joint between the foot and the big toe, and it may be painful. A bunion is an enlargement of bone or tissue around the joint at the base of the big toe (metatarsophalangeal joint). The big toe may turn toward the second toe (angulation) and the tissues surrounding the joint may be swollen and tender.
Today the term usually is used to refer to the pathological bump on the side of the great toe joint. The bump is the swollen bursal sac and/or an osseous (bony) deformity that has grown on the metatarsophalangeal joint (where the first metatarsal bone and hallux meet).
Bunions are normally referred to as hallux valgus. The term “hallux valgus” or “hallux abducto valgus” are the most commonly used medical terms associated with a bunion deformity, where “hallux” refers to the great toe, “valgus” refers to the abnormal angulation of the great toe commonly associated with bunion deformities, and “abducto” refers to the abnormal drifting or inward leaning of the great toe towards the second toe, which is also commonly associated with bunion disorders.
Bunions are caused by a biomechanical abnormality, where certain tendons, ligaments, and supportive structures of the first metatarsal are no longer functioning correctly. This biomechanical abnormality may be caused by a variety of conditions intrinsic to the structure of the foot – such as flat feet, excessive ligamentous flexibility, abnormal bone structure, and certain neurological conditions. These factors are often considered genetic. However, some experts are convinced that footwear exacerbates the problem caused by the original genetic deformity.
Bunions are commonly associated with a deviated position of the big toe toward the second toe and the deviation in the angle between the first and second metatarsal bones of the foot. The small sesamoid bones found beneath the first metatarsal (which helps the flexor tendon bend the big toe downwards) may also become deviated over time as the first metatarsal bone drifts away from its normal position. Arthritis of the great toe joint, diminished and /or altered range of motion, and discomfort with pressure applied to the bump or with motion of the joint, may all accompany bunion development.
Treatment
Bunions may be treated conservatively with changes in shoe gear, different orthotics (accommodating padding and shielding), chiropractic care to improve gait, rest, ice, and medications. Orthotics are splints, and regulators while conservative measures include various footwear like gelled toe spacers, bunion/toe separators, bunion regulators, bunion splints, and bunion cushions. These sorts of treatments address symptoms more than they correct the actual deformity. Surgery may be warranted if discomfort is severe enough or when correction of the deformity is desired.
Summary
By learning more about bunions, we can better understand how to prevent and treat symptoms associated with them. When bunions are present, whatever is required depends on the area affected and the symptoms present, and that is why it is important to have a team of doctors that is able to identify the root cause.
At BBC Health in Lewisville, Texas, we know how to identify, treat, or refer in the proper direction for any problems with your feet or walking gait. As a primary care provider, we can quickly provide medical, chiropractic, and rehab treatments in order to get you well as fast as possible. If you’re suffering from foot pain, don’t delay, and contact us immediately to see how we can help.
