A bunion alternatively named Hallux vagus, is a condition that occurs when the big toe starts pointing towards the second toe leading to a bumpy formation on the inner edge of the toe. This condition could escalate becoming excruciatingly painful as the extra bone and a fluid-inundated sac grow at the base of the big toe thus causing major impediments in carrying out routine activities.

Bunions Causes:

• Bunions are known to occur more frequently in women and at times might be noticed to have a genetic predisposition.
• Those individuals that have atypical bones in the feet since birth are seen to have a greater likelihood of developing a bunion.
• Wearing footwear that is narrow, ill-fitted and tapering at the toes or high heels might lead to the development of bunions.

Bunions Symptoms:

• The skin at the inner edge of the big toe becomes red and rough or hard skinned.
• A bony bump formation at that spot.
• Pain radiating all over the joint area that aggravates due to the pressure from the footwear worn.
• The big toe noticeably turns inwards towards the other toes.

Diagnosis & Tests:

The general diagnosis is done by the doctor on examining the particular site. An x-ray of the foot could reveal an unnatural angle forming in between the big toe and the foot and, in certain situations even arthritis.

Bunions Treatment:

• When the bunion initially starts developing, it is crucial to take proper care of the feet and opting preferably for footwear that are wide at the toes. By simply following these pointers the problem can be nipped in the bud in its nascent stages thus preventing the need for any advance treatment.
• Wearing felt or foam padding on the foot to shield the bunion or employing devices known as spacers that act as separators between the big toe and the second toe during the night time. Such a device is easily obtainable in medicine stores.
• Wearing comfortable footwear even around the house that is preferably open toed or one could try incising an opening in the toe area of a pair of old shoes that fit snugly, would also be a great option.
• Surgical intervention is needed when the bunion worsens leading to chronic deformity or unbearable pain. The surgery is done for realigning the toe and removing the bony bump –bunionectomy could be effectual. With over a hundred varying surgery techniques that are available, after consultation with one’s doctor the appropriate option could be chosen. Surgery does allay pain in several though not all individuals with bunions.

Possible Complications:

• Severe foot pain.
• Major deformity in the foot.
• Stiffness and rigidity in the foot.
• A condition known as Hallux varus that is known to occur due to over-correcting the toe during surgery that leads to the big toe pointing away from the second toe.

Prevention:

• Wearing footwear that don’t unduly compress or constrict the toes.
• Maintaining regular, adequate foot care especially so if one is diabetic.

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