Bunions Specialist

What is a bunion?

A bunion, which is medically known as hallux valgus, develops on your foot at the base of your big toe. This toe contains two joints, and a bunion affects your metatarsophalangeal joint, which is where your first metatarsal bone joins your phalanx (the small bone in your toe).

When forced out of alignment, your metatarsal bone migrates toward the inside of your foot, which forces your big toe over toward your second toe, sometimes shifting over or under that toe.

With the misalignment, your metatarsophalangeal joint becomes enlarged, and a bony protrusion develops on your foot.

Because of its size, this protrusion can often become inflamed, which can cause significant pain. As well, complications can develop, such as hammertoes or bursitis in the balls of your feet under your second toe due to the imbalance the bunion creates.

Bunions are generally progressive, which means early intervention at North Central Texas Foot & Ankle is key.

What causes bunions?

The primary culprit behind the formation of a bunion is footwear that crowds your toes. Women develop bunions far more often than men, largely due to pointy-toed shoes and heels.

Outside of footwear, bunions can also develop because of:

• An inherited structural defect
• Arthritis
• Gait issues
• Hammertoes
• Trauma to your toe

Again, it’s worth stressing that bunions are progressive, so the earlier you seek treatment at North Central Texas Foot & Ankle, the better your chances are of remedying the condition without surgery.

How are bunions diagnosed?

While a bunion may seem obvious, your podiatrist at North Central Texas Foot & Ankle confirms the bunion using their in-house digital X-ray, which provides them with a clearer picture of the problem.

How are bunions treated?

In their earlier stages, the team at North Central Texas Foot & Ankle can often successfully treat your bunions using:

• Orthotics
• Padding
• Splinting
• A change in footwear to roomier toe boxes and lower heels
• Anti-inflammatory medications

If your bunions have progressed and resisted these treatments, your podiatrist may recommend a bunionectomy to realign the joint and eliminate the bony protrusion.

To learn more about remedying problematic bunions, call North Central Texas Foot & Ankle or schedule an appointment using the online scheduling tool.