Bunions

Bunion is a painful swelling/crack on the side of foot near the base of big toe. Bunion is not a simple joint problem but a progressive disorder. At the initial stage, the developed bump affects the big toe, making it to lean towards the adjacent toes. Later, the big toe joint enlarges and crowds against other toes. This tends to create pressure and sudden formation of abnormal bone in the first metatarsal-phalangeal joint. It gradually paves way for improper alignment of bones and harmful inflammation. Bunions are worse, if they are not treated in time, as it may lead to difficulty during walks creating arch pain.

Bunionette, Corns and Lesions

If the enlargement of bone is at the base of little toe, then it is referred as ‘bunionette' (or) ‘tailor's bunion'. In few cases, bunions are the cause for skin problems like corns and lesions.

Indications/Symptoms:

Generally, there are no prominent indications for bunion, as it roots and steadily grows causing serious foot problems. Bunions are said to be developed when there is pain at the base of big toe during walking.

The development of bunion can be traced by ailments like,

• Swelling/Inflammation and soreness around the big toe
• Bending of big toe towards other toes
• Formation of extra bone/ bump on the big toe
• Breakdown of skin over the bunion bone leading to the development of infection
• Irritation due to overlapping of toes while wearing imperfect fitting shoes