Bunions 101

That bony bump at the base of your big toe? It won’t go away on its own!
Known as a bunion (or Hallux Valgus medically), that bump is more than just a cosmetic concern. Foot & Ankle Center of Ohio has plenty of experience in managing this issue, so our guide below explains the basics: what bunions are, why they form, and how to spot them.

What Exactly Is a Bunion?

A bunion isn’t simply an overgrowth of bone. It occurs when the underlying bones in the front part of your foot shift out of alignment.

• Specifically, the long bone connecting to the big toe (the first metatarsal) angles outward, away from the foot, while the big toe itself points inward, often crowding the second toe.

This joint misalignment creates the visible bump we recognize as a bunion.

Important: Bunions are typically progressive, meaning the misalignment and the bump tend to become more pronounced over time without intervention.

The Root Cause: Why Do Bunions Develop?

While tight shoes often take the blame, the primary reason usually lies in your foot’s structure and mechanics:

• Inherited Foot Type: Genetics plays the biggest role!
  • Faulty foot structure or mechanics (like having flat feet or certain gait patterns) that place abnormal stress on the big toe joint are often inherited. If bunions run in your family, your risk is higher.
• Aggravating Factors: While not the initial cause, certain factors can definitely worsen an existing bunion or speed up its development.
  • Tight, narrow shoes (especially with pointed-toe boxes) and high heels are major culprits, as they squeeze the toes and force the joint into an unnatural position. Less commonly, arthritis or foot injuries can also contribute.

Recognizing the Signs: How to Identify a Bunion

How do you know if you’re developing a bunion? Look for…

• A bony prominence on the inner side of your foot at the base of the big toe joint.
• Your big toe leaning or pointing towards your second toe.
• Discomfort around the big toe joint, which may be constant or flare up with activity or shoe wear.
• Inflammation and irritation over the bony bump.
• Corns or calluses forming on the bump due to shoe friction or between the first and second toes where they rub together.
• Difficulty finding shoes that fit comfortably without putting pressure on the bunion becomes increasingly challenging.
• Restricted Motion: Stiffness or pain when trying to bend your big toe up and down.

What Now?

Accurate diagnosis is essential. Through a physical examination or X-rays, a podiatrist can assess the severity of the bunion, identify contributing factors, and rule out other conditions, too.

For trusted podiatric experts, choose Foot & Ankle Center of Ohio! Our team can resolve your foot and ankle problems and help you return to living your best life. Step past pain and schedule your appointment today.