Bunions

A bunion is a bump that forms on the joint at the base of your big toe. The big toe joint swells, forcing the toe against the other toes. This puts pressure on the big toe joint, pushing it outward beyond the normal profile of the foot, and resulting in pain. Bunions that occur on the joint of the little toe are called bunionettes or Tailor's bunions.

Bunions can happen for a number of reasons, but a common cause is wearing shoes that fit too tightly. They can also develop as a result of injury, inherited foot type, or stress on your foot Bunions may also be associated with certain types of arthritis, particularly inflammatory types, such as rheumatoid arthritis.

While your foot shape and the way you walk may contribute to bunions, the most common cause is wearing high-heeled shoes and shoes that are too tight or narrow especially in the toe. Spending a lot of time on your feet can also aggravate bunions.

For more information on bunions, check out our blog - My Toes Are Crooked - What Can I Do About My Bunions

SYMPTOMS OF BUNIONS

• You have a bump on your big toe at the base

• Your big toe is painful, sore and may be red from rubbing against your shoe

• You may have calluses on the big toe, sores between the toes or an ingrown toenail

• You have trouble moving your big toe
  

WHAT CAN I DO ABOUT MY BUNIONS?

A pad or cushion over the bunion may relieve rubbing if the shoe is wide enough to accommodate the padding. A gentle wrap that helps stretch the toe and holds it in proper alignment may also be helpful.  Shoes should be soft and wide with flat or low heels.

Foot Products That Can Help