Bunions

A Bunion (also known as “hallux valgus”) is a deformity affecting the joint that connects the big toe to the foot ( the “first metatarsophalangeal joint” – or “MTP” joint). The 1st MTP joint is critical for bearing and distributing our body’s weight when we’re on our feet.  Although many think the bony protrusion at the base of the big toe is due to a bony growth, it is actually due to  the misalignment of the joint as the big toe bends towards the second. The joint often becomes stiff, inflamed and painful.  The outward protrusion of the joint can also make it difficult to find proper-fitting shoes. 

Bunions are common: they affect about 23% of adults and occur more frequently in women than men. A bunion is a progressive foot deformity, meaning they usually form slowly over time. It is also irreversible without surgical intervention, although surgery is only indicated if it significantly disrupts one’s quality of life. For most people, conservative routes of treatment will suffice to manage pain and slow down the progression of the bunion and to prevent other painful disorders, like bursitis and arthritis.  

When a bunion affects the joint at the base of the little toe, it’s called a “bunionette”.

Bunions are a progressive disorder and develop slowly over time.  Signs and symptoms include:

• The big toe pointing or bending inward toward the other toes.  This is often the earliest symptom: it starts as a small deviation but gradually grows over time.
• The base of the big toe sticking outward more than usual.
• A prominent bony bump at the base of the big toe
• Irritation and redness of the skin around the bunion.
• Inflammation and stiffness around the joint
• Pain when walking or when pressure is applied to the bunion
• Reduced range of motion or movement in the 1st MTP joint of affected foot.

The most effective and practical thing you can do to prevent bunions is wear proper footwear.  You can do this by:

• Avoiding wearing high heels (or at least restricting them to special occasions)
• Avoiding wearing narrow, pointed shoes that put excessive pressure on the big toe joint
• Wearing shoes with good arch support and a wide toe box
• Wearing motion control and stability shoes when running long distances to reduce the biomechanical forces that contribute to bunions

It’s important to remember: there is no need to sacrifice your feet for fashion. You may love the shoes, but if they don’t love you back, the relationship may not work out.  The specially curated selection of shoes and custom dress shoe orthotics at Feet First are living proof that you can be stylish and kind to your feet.  After all, you deserve shoes that love you as much as you love them.

If you already have bunions, you can prevent the condition from getting worse by:

• Using protective and supportive devices, such as splints or orthotics, which help position and realign the foot.  A foot specialist or chiropodist at our Clinic can help you find the device that works best for you.
• Getting footwear that accommodates and properly fits the bunion, which reduces pressure on the joint and gives it a chance to heal and improve.  

The knowledgeable foot specialists at Feet First Clinic can help you find bunion-friendly shoes, sandals and boots that suit the unique shape and biomechanical needs of your feet. Book an appointment with a chiropodist today if you want to seek treatment for bunions or to determine if you may be at risk of developing bunions based on your family history, gait patterns, and foot alignment.