Bunions

The classic description of a bunion is an enlargement of the great toe joint associated with leaning of the great toe toward the adjacent toe. When a bunion becomes painful it generally due to the prominence of the joint rubbing against the shoe. However, several other problems can arise associated with having a bunion including painful calluses of the ball of the foot, pressure between the toes, and pain within the joint due to arthritis or joint derangement.

Although bunions tend to run in families, it is the foot type that is passed down not the bunion. Parents who suffer from poor foot mechanics can pass their problematic foot type on to their children, who, in turn, are also prone to developing bunions. The abnormal functioning caused by this faulty foot development can lead to pressure being exerted on and within the foot, often resulting in bone and joint deformities such as bunions and hammertoes.

Treatment of bunion pain can be as simple as buying wider shoes and even having existing shoes stretched over the prominence area. Surgical correction is available in many forms depending on the severity of the condition, patient’s age, and joint shape. An experienced foot surgeon will choose the procedure that is appropriate for each individual situation.

Post-operative recovery from surgery varies widely depending on the procedure that is chosen. In most cases, patients are able to walk on the foot after only a few days in a protective boot or shoe. However, in severe cases, a period of non-weightbearing in a cast may be necessary to adequately protect the surgical area from disruption.

Our surgeons are very experienced and will take the time to discuss all options with you if you are considering surgical repair.