What is a bunion?
A bunion is a painful, bony bump that forms at the joint between your big toe and your foot. Most people’s big toes naturally lean inward slightly towards the other toes. Over time, if the angle of your big toe becomes more pronounced, the point at which your metatarsal meets the toe becomes inflamed and enlarged.
Don’t wait to seek help for painful bunions. Minimally invasive techniques can easily treat bunions, but it can be done only for mild to moderately painful bunions.
How to identify a bunion?
Look out for the following warning signs:
- A bony bump on the side of your foot next to your big toe
- Your big toe pointing at a severe angle towards the other toes
- Hardened skin or callouses over the bump
- Redness, irritation, swelling, or inflammation
- Pain when walking or moving the toes
Causes of bunions
Some people are more predisposed to bunions than others, with your foot and bone structure being a major contributor. Often, bunions run in the family. They are also more common in women than men, due to shoe styles tending to be tighter.
Treatment options
Minimally invasive surgery uses small incisions and specialized tools to correct the position of the toe. Your specialist will discuss whether conservative care or surgery is right for you.
- Shorter recovery time and earlier mobility
- Less pain involved with recovery
- Minimal scarring because the incisions require fewer stitches
Post-surgery
After surgery, follow your doctor’s advice about resting your foot, prescribed medication, physical therapy, supportive shoes, and a balanced diet. Your care team will help you build a safe plan for returning to your normal activities.
Article reviewed by the Medicare Orthopaedic Care Team.