Bunions
Bunions
Bunions occur when the big toe deviates from the normal alignment . Bunions are a common problem that most people experience as a bony protuberance at the base of the big toe. A bunion, however, is more complicated than simply a bump on the foot.

When a patient has a bunion, the big toe angles in towards the other toes, a condition called hallux valgus. Bunions are most common in women, and the cause is almost always due to unsuitable footwear. The word 'bunion' is derived from the Latin word bunio, which means turnip.

 
What causes a bunion?

Tight fitting shoes are thought to be the cause of bunions in about 90% of patients. Shoes such as high heels are particularly damaging to the toes. These shoes have a sloping foot piece and a narrow toe box. The slope causes the front of the foot to be pushed with force into the narrow toe box. The narrow toe box causes the toes to become squeezed together. Depending on factors such as duration of wearing constraining footwear, skeletal maturity, and individual factors, the toes can become permanently adapted to the new position and lead to the formation of a bunion.

 
Evaluation
If you have symptoms of bunions , see your doctor for evaluation.
 
If you have any of these conditions and wish to be advised on the most appropriate treatment alternatives, please call Dr Hugh Blackley on 09 522 2980 during office hours to schedule an appointment.
 

 

 

All Rights Reserved. Copyright © Dr Hugh Blackley, Orthopaedic Surgery., 2006 - 2010.