Dr. Salma Aziz, D.P.M, M.S.

Bunions

What Causes Bunions? …

“Although they may develop on the fifth (little) toe, bunions usually occur at the base of the big toe. Bunions are often caused by incorrect foot mechanics. The foot may flatten too much, forcing the toe joint to move beyond normal range. In some cases, joint damage caused by arthritis or an injury produces a bunion. Most people are born with the tendency to develop bunions. If you’re at risk for developing a bunion, wearing high-heeled or poorly fitting shoes makes the problem worse.”

Types of Bunions

Positional Bunions: As a new bone grows, the joint enlarges. This stretches the joint’s outer covering. Force created by the stretching pushes the big toe toward the smaller ones. Eventually, the inside tendons tighten, pulling the big toe farther out of alignment.

Positional (mild) bunions arise from the growth of new bone. Structural (severe) bunions result when the joint at the base of the toe shifts position. Many bunions are a combination of both types.
 
Treatment: If a bunion is not painful or severe, your doctor may recommend that you wear a different style of shoes. Or you may be prescribed custom-made shoe inserts (othoses) to control incorrect foot mechanics. For painful or severe bunions, outpatient surgery may be recommended. After surgery, you’ll soon be on your way home and ready for recovery.