A bunion is a swelling or enlargement of the big toe joint on the inner side of the foot. The big toe commonly starts to drift toward the second toe. This problem usually begins due to a weakness in the structure of the foot, which allows the bone to drift from proper alignment. Poor fitting shoes hasten these changes.
This problem begins slowly but continues and pain will result from shoes rubbing against the area of enlarged bone. Swelling, redness and a deep aching pain are usually associated with this deformity.EVALUATION:
Examination and X-rays.TREATMENT:
Conservative treatment can only slow the progress of an existing deformity. These include changing shoe styles, orthotics (custom made arch supports), oral medications, injectable medications and physical therapy.
Early surgical treatment of a bunion will prevent arthritic changes in the joint and make it less likely that the condition will progress from simple to moderate or from moderate to severe.
There are at least 125 different bunion procedures! Only a qualified surgeon can properly select the appropriate procedure for each patient.
Mild bunions may require removing only the abnormal bump of bone--commonly called a "bumpectomy"--and may be done through mini-incision techniques.
Moderate bunion deformities may require re-positioning of the bone.
Severe bunion deformities may require a joint implant, fusion or major repositioning of the metatarsal bone.
These procedures may be performed in the office, surgical center or hospital depending on the severity of the deformity and health status of the patient.