Bunion Basics: Understanding That Bump on Your Big Toe
Have you noticed a bony bump forming at the base of your big toe?
You might be dealing with a bunion, a common and progressive foot deformity. This isn’t just a cosmetic concern, however; it’s a structural change that can cause significant pain and difficulty with footwear. In the following guide, Atlantic Foot & Ankle Specialists will explain what bunions are, why they develop, and how to spot them, too!
What Exactly Is a Bunion? (More Than Just a Bump)
A bunion occurs when bones in the front of your foot shift out of alignment.
- The long bone connecting to the big toe (first metatarsal) angles outward, while the big toe itself points inward, crowding the other toes.
- This joint misalignment creates the visible bump we recognize as a bunion.
Key Understanding: Bunions are typically progressive. Without management, the deformity and symptoms often become more pronounced over time!
Why Do Bunions Form? (The Usual Suspects)
While footwear often gets the blame, the primary reason lies elsewhere.
- Heredity & Foot Mechanics: This is the leading factor! Inherited foot structures and faulty biomechanics (like flat feet) make some individuals more susceptible. If bunions run in your family, your risk is higher.
- Footwear (The Aggravator): Though not the cause, tight, narrow, or high-heeled shoes can definitely worsen an existing bunion or accelerate its progression by forcing the toe into an unnatural position.
- Other Factors: Less commonly, arthritis or previous foot injuries can also contribute.
Spotting the Signs: Could That Bump Be a Bunion?
How do you know if you’re developing a bunion? Look for…
- The Visible Bump: A bony prominence on the inner side of your foot, at the base of the big toe.
- Big Toe Angling: Your big toe is leaning towards your second toe.
- Pain or Soreness: Around the big toe joint, often worse with activity or in certain shoes.
- Redness & Swelling: Inflammation over the bony bump.
- Shoe Fit Problems: Increasing difficulty finding comfortable shoes.
- Corns or Calluses: Developing on the bump or between overlapping toes.
- Restricted Motion: Stiffness or reduced range of motion in your big toe joint.
Take Action, Hurt Less
If you suspect you have a bunion, don’t wait for the pain to become unbearable!
While surgical intervention might not be necessary, there are some minimally invasive methods we’d be happy to discuss with you. Give us a call to learn more! Our podiatrists can provide an accurate diagnosis and discuss the best path forward.
Atlantic Foot & Ankle Specialists is here to provide compassionate care tailored to your individual foot and ankle needs. Contact our office in Chatham County at (912) 988-3323 to schedule an appointment today.
