Bunions develop over time. What seems like a minor bump or discomfort now could very well develop into something more concerning if left unaddressed. So, how do you know if you have a bunion? Are there any risk factors that increase your likelihood of getting a bunion? What should you do if you think you may have developed a bunion?
For personalised advice, contact our team at Foot and Leg Pain Centre today.
What Are Bunions?
Your big toe is also known as the hallux and can become deformed or maligned for several reasons. This will often result in an abnormal deviation, and the bump that forms around the big toe joint is typically referred to as a bunion. While a bunion, formerly known as hallux valgus, may just seem like an unsightly deformity to the joint, it can have severe impacts on the foot as a whole.
Bunions can have a major impact on your day-to-day life. Everyday activities can become painful, with significant discomfort limiting your ability to go about your regular routines. Bunions often manifest as bony protrusions at the very base of the big toe, and can result in stiffness, swelling, and difficulty wearing particular shoes. If left untreated, a bunion could even cause noticeable changes in the structure of the foot.
The Common Symptoms of Bunions
Everyone’s experience with bunions can vary significantly. Symptoms can range from mild discomfort to severe and debilitating pain, depending on the type of bunion that has been developed. This pain can negatively impact overall mobility, making daily life painful and difficult to navigate comfortably. If bunions progress, the big toe may begin to lean toward the other toes. This can cause crowding, which can make it difficult to find shoes that fit correctly and cause deformity in the entire foot.
Here are some of the early symptoms to look out for:
- Constant or short-term pain in the big toe
- A bony bump at the base of the big toe that is swollen, red, and tender to the touch
- Numbness in the big toe and surrounding the bunion
- Burning sensations in the toe when resting
- Stiffness and limited motion in the affected area
- Redness and inflammation
- Corns or calluses developed as the bunion rubs against footwear
Risk Factors of Bunions
Generally speaking, anyone can develop bunions. However, some people are more susceptible than others. Certain factors may put you at a higher risk of developing a bunion. For example, some people are genetically more likely due to the shape and mechanical structure of their foot, which may lead to pronation. Other people may have uneven leg lengths, which can sometimes cause an uneven gait and lead to bunions developing.
One of the biggest factors that can increase the risk of bunions is footwear. When wearing shoes that don’t fit properly, you are not giving your toes sufficient space to spread out. This can lead to crowding, friction, and bunions. High heels that have pointed tips are a popular example of footwear that can lead to bunion development.
Podiatry Treatment for Bunion
When you leave bunions untreated, you risk a variety of other issues. A bunion can progress over time and possibly cause other foot deformities. This may include hammer toes and overlapping toes. Untreated bunions can also grow in severity, leading to difficulty walking or running, poor balance, and major foot pain. Early intervention is key, and working with a podiatrist can offer several different treatment options. Bunion treatment is designed to minimise symptoms and prevent further issues from developing. A podiatrist will first assess your symptoms and try to find a cause, before then developing a custom treatment plan tailored to your needs and the state of your condition. This may include:
- Footwear modification and advice
- Toe padding
- Orthotic devices
- Exercises to improve strength in the surrounding muscles
- Stretches to increase flexibility and mobility
Book an Appointment at Foot and Leg Pain Centre
Bunions are extremely common. However, if left untreated, what starts as a minor discomfort could develop into something more severe. Working with a podiatrist can intervene before your condition grows worse. Contact the Foot and Leg Pain Centre today to book an appointment with a friendly podiatrist. In your first appointment, we will strive to fully assess your foot and develop a personalised treatment plan moving forward. The first step is to schedule a time to come and visit us, then we’ll go from there!