Bunions
What is a Bunion?
To most people a Bunion means a bony bump on the side of the big toe. In reality the bunion is just one sign of a complex structural deformity resulting in pain.
Causes
Bunions are a large, hard bump that grows at the base of the big toe. They can be caused by injury, poor walking form, misalignment of the feet, legs or hips and genetics. They can be caused and exacerbated by ill-fitting and unsupportive footwear.
Treatment
Bunions are permanent, unless treated with surgery but they can be managed and pain reduced with proper treatment.
This could include orthotics and other corrective footwear, use of splints, anti-inflammatory medications, ice-packs and physical therapy.
Ultimately though the best and most permanent way to fix bunions is with surgery. The aim of surgery is to straighten the big toe and remove the bump that has formed at its base. This will include manipulating the tendons, ligaments, muscles and bones.