A bunion (also referred to as hallux valgus) is often described as a bump on the side of the big toe. But a bunion is more than that. The big toe leans toward the second toe, rather than pointing straight ahead. This throws the bones out of alignment—producing the bunion’s bump.

Bunions are a progressive disorder. Symptoms usually appear at later stages, although some people never have symptoms.

Bunions are most often caused by an inherited faulty mechanical structure of the foot. Although wearing shoes that crowd the toes will not actually cause bunions, it sometimes makes the deformity get progressively worse. Symptoms may therefore appear sooner.

Symptoms, which occur at the site of the bunion, may include:

• Pain or soreness

• Inflammation and redness

• A burning sensation

• Possible numbness

Because bunions are progressive, they do not go away and will usually get worse over time. But not all cases are alike—some bunions progress more rapidly than others. Once your foot doctor has evaluated your bunion, a treatment plan can be developed that is suited to your needs.

Early treatments are aimed at easing the pain of bunions, but they will not reverse the deformity itself.

If nonsurgical treatments fail to relieve bunion pain and when the pain of a bunion interferes with daily activities, it is time to discuss surgical options with your foot doctor. Together you can decide if surgery is best for you.

A variety of surgical procedures is available to treat bunions. The procedures are designed to remove the bump of bone, correct the changes in the bony structure of the foot and correct soft tissue changes that may also have occurred. The goal of surgery is the reduction of pain and deformity.

In selecting the procedure or combination of procedures for your particular case, your foot doctor will take into consideration the extent of your deformity based on the x-ray findings, your age, your activity level and other factors. The length of the recovery period will vary, depending on the procedure or procedures performed.

Here at Dearborn Foot and Ankle, we are specialized in the treatment of a wide variety of foot and ankle conditions.

Come see us, we will be happy to go over your treatment options.

Contact us today for an appointment or to learn more.