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Bunions Q & A
What is a bunion?
A bunion is a swollen, bony bump that forms on the inside of your foot at the base of the big toe joint. Bunions develop slowly and can become more painful over time. A smaller bunion that develops on the joint of your little toe is called a bunionette.
How do I know if I have a bunion?
If the base of your big toe develops a swollen, tender bump that causes your big toe to slant inward toward your second toe, you may have a bunion. Other signs and symptoms of a bunion include:
- Redness and swelling around your big toe joint
- Corns or calluses where your big toe and second toe overlap
- Persistent or intermittent pain
- Difficulty walking or wearing shoes
Without proper treatment, bunions can become progressively worse and lead to persistent (chronic) foot pain or deformity.
What causes bunions?
You’re more likely to develop a bunion if someone in your family has had one, so there may be a genetic cause for this condition.
However, most bunions develop from wearing shoes that are too tight or narrow. Although anyone can get a bunion, about 90% of bunion sufferers are women who wear high heels. Wearing high heels or poorly fitting shoes can force your toes into a crowded position. Over time, this can lead to a bunion.
How do you treat bunions?
A podiatrist begins with a thorough exam and review of your medical history. After the exam, he may take an X-ray — conveniently located right in the office — to evaluate the severity of your bunion.
Then, he discusses the best treatment options for your particular condition. Many bunions can be treated with conservative, nonsurgical methods, such as:
- Switching to roomy, comfortable shoes
- Using a bunion pad for cushioning
- Wearing foot orthotics
- Taking anti-inflammatory medicines to relieve pain
For advanced bunions that cause painful symptoms, a podiatrist may recommend surgery to remove swollen tissue and correct your foot alignment. He performs same-day outpatient procedures right in his office.
If you suffer from bunions, call Foot and Ankle Center for the Rockies Specialists to schedule an appointment.
