Bunion Deformities

Bunion deformities are bony bumps that form at the joint at the base of the big toe and sometimes the 5th toe.  Bunions can be pain-free but usually cause a lot of pain. If you start experiencing bunion symptoms, visit Dr. Hall at Mill Creek Foot & Ankle Clinic for a thorough evaluation. He offers the most effective treatments for bunions of all types, including those affecting children. Call Dr. Joseph Hall, DPM (Foot and Ankle Specialist) at Mill Creek Foot & Ankle Clinic in Mill Creek, WA to discuss your bunion deformities, or use the online scheduling tool to request an appointment today.

What are bunion deformities?

Most bunion deformities develop on the first metatarsal or big toe (hallux abducto valgus). They can also occur on the fifth metatarsal or little toe (tailor’s bunions). They’re lumps that form when tissue and bone at the bottom of the joint move out of place.

The lumps are hard and bony, protruding from the side of the foot. They may not be painful initially but get increasingly uncomfortable over time. The skin over a bunion typically becomes stretched, shiny, and red, with tenderness when you touch the lump.

Bunions often press into the sides of your footwear as they get bigger, causing painful pressure. Severe bunions can make it hard to walk.

Why do I have bunion deformities?

Common causes of bunions include:

• Flat feet or low arches
• Abnormal biomechanics of the feet
• Injuries
• Inflammatory conditions like arthritis
• Loose joints or tendons
• Repeated strenuous activity
• Weak foot muscles
• Pregnancy

Bunions often run in families, so if your relatives have them, your risk is greater. Women develop bunions far more often than men.

What treatments help with bunion deformities?

If you develop a bunion, change your footwear to something comfortable, well-fitting, and supportive. Soft sides help to accommodate the lump without putting pressure on it. Apply ice packs to reduce inflammation and take anti-inflammatory medicines like ibuprofen.

Bunions won’t improve without treatment, so visit Mill Creek Foot & Ankle Clinic as soon as you notice one developing. Your provider will order X-rays to examine the structures inside your feet before recommending treatment, which could include bunion cushions/padding and orthotics.

Orthotics are shoe inserts that podiatrists can custom design to suit each patient’s unique feet. 

Severe bunions might require surgery to realign the bones and connective tissues that form the joint and remove the lump.

Can I prevent bunions?

You can’t always prevent bunions, but you can take steps that considerably reduce the risk. These include:

• Strengthening your feet with bunion exercises
• Wearing good supportive shoes and avoiding barefoot
• Checking for changes in your feet
• Resting your feet regularly

Your provider can offer invaluable advice on foot care and bunion prevention.

Call Mill Creek Foot & Ankle Clinic if you have bunions. You can also schedule a consultation via the online booking feature at any time.