Bunion
A Bunion is an inflammation and enlargement of the joint at the base of the big toe. It is characterized by the deviation of the big toe toward the other toes.
Bunion Symptoms
Symptoms of a bunion include a deviated big toe that seems to crowd the other toes or may even overlap the second toe. It is also common to have a callus form at the base of the big toe that is affected. There may also be tenderness, redness and inflammation present at the base of the big toe.
Bunion Causes
Bunions most commonly affect women and this may be due in part to women wearing tight-fitting shoes (especially high heels that are narrow-toed) that force the toes together. Some persons are more susceptible to bunions due to family history or arthritic changes present in the joint. Bunions are common in ballet dancers.
Bunion Diagnosis
Diagnosis is based on observation of the aforementioned symptoms. If the foot joint is painful or inflamed, then the foot should be evaluated by a physician. The evaluation may include a physical examination and x-rays.
Bunion Treatment
The early stages of a bunion can be treated by inserting a firm pad between the big toe and the other toes to force the big toe into a straight forward position. A special bunion splint may be worn at night and a thinner version of this pad may be used during the day. Stretching exercises are sometimes prescribed by a doctor or health care professional. High heels and tight fitting shoes must be avoided to give the foot time to heal. A local injection of cortisone may relieve inflammation and in advanced cases surgery may be necessary.