Bunions

What are Bunions?

Bunions are a deformity of the big toe joint and can range from minor bumps or lumps to a severe deformity. Bunions are formed usually as a result of pressure on the big toe. When the big toe is pushed in towards the rest of the toes, the continual pressure on the toe joint forces the joint out of its normal position.

Bunions are usually caused by shoes that do not fit well, especially where there is much tightness in the toe area. The use of high-heel shoes on a regular basis is also a cause. Other risk factors can include injury to the big toe, rheumatoid arthritis, and osteoarthritis of the knee or hip.

What are the different types of Bunions?

The most common types of bunions are those that form on your big toe from extra pressure. Other types of bunions include:

• Congenital bunions: Some babies are born with bunions.
• Juvenile bunions: Juvenile or adolescent bunions typically affect those under the age of 18.
• Tailor's bunions: These bunions form at the base of your pinky toe and are usually caused by ill-fitting shoes or taking part in activities that pushes your little toe towards your other toes. 

What are the symptoms associated with Bunions?

One of the most obvious signs of a bunion is a bony growth that forms at the base of your big toe. Other symptoms include:

• Swelling or aching of the big toe with intermittent pain
• Reduced range of motion in the big toe, an inability to bend your big toe
• Discolouration or redness 
• Development of calluses from increased pressure and friction between the toes
• Difficulty wearing certain types of shoes, or pain that gets worse when you're wearing shoes
• Numbness in or around your big toe

What causes Bunions?

Bunions are believed to be caused by a combination of factors such as a family history and your choice of shoes. Prolonged pressure on your big toe joint can push it out of its natural alignment and towards your other toes. The common causes of extra pressure on your big toe joint include:

• Wearing narrow or pointed shoes
• The way you walk
• Health conditions such as lupus or rheumatoid arthritis
• Standing or working on your feet for a long time 

What are the risk factors of Bunions?

Although anyone can develop bunions, certain groups of people may be predisposed to having bunions:

• Gender: Females have a higher risk of developing bunions
• Family History: If your family member has bunions or have issues with their foot mechanics, you'll have a higher risk of developing bunions
• Prior Injuries: People with a history of foot injuries are more prone to bunions

How are Bunions diagnosed?

A physical and medical history examination. An X-ray can help check the bone structure