Bunions Specialist

What are bunions?

A bunion is a structural abnormality that causes a significant bump at the bottom of your big toe. A bunion develops in the metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint between your big toe's phalanx bones and your foot's first long metatarsal bone. 

As the first metatarsal gravitates out of position, the big toe drifts in the other direction. That causes a prominent bump on the side of your foot at the base of your big toe.

You may also develop a bunionette, a much smaller bunion that causes soreness and discomfort on the outside part of your pinky toe. 

What are the symptoms of bunions?

Bunions develop gradually, with symptoms increasing over the years if untreated. Common symptoms include:

• Tilting big toe
• Painful or soreness
• Skin inflammation 
• Corns where your big toe overlaps smaller toe
• Callus atop the bony bump
• Burning 
• Numbness

Bunions can also lead to hammertoe, in which your toes freeze while bent. Severe bunions can trigger additional changes in your feet, potentially leading to serious foot imbalance and instability. 

What causes bunions?

Genetics is the most common cause. You don't inherit the bunions themselves, but your foot type — which comes from your genetics — can make you prone to developing them. 

It's not definitively known whether shoes can cause bunions. Many foot doctors believe that footwear like high heels can contribute to, but isn't the sole cause of, bunions.

Chronic conditions like rheumatoid arthritis and neuromuscular issues like flat feet can potentially lead to bunions, as can foot trauma.

How do you treat bunions?

Yavapai Foot and Ankle Center uses several bunion treatments, from the most conservative to the most advanced surgical corrections. 

Footwear changes

If you frequently wear shoes that push your toes together, like pointed-toe heels, a change of shoes can help to ease bunion symptoms.

Orthotics

Orthotics, shoe inserts that Yavapai Foot and Ankle Center offers on-site, can help to gently realign your toe and ease the pressure around your MTP joint.

Padding and taping

Padding the MTP joint and taping the toes can relieve skin irritation and pain. 

Injections

Corticosteroid and anesthetic injections can ease your bunion pain for as much as a few months. 

Nonsurgical treatments can ease symptoms but don't prevent progression. If you have a severe bunion, surgery to remove the extra bone and realign your foot might be the best solution.

Yavapai Foot and Ankle Center has the best in bunion solutions, so call the office or schedule online.