A bunion is an enlargement and inflammation of the bursa sack at the 1st metatarsal joint (big toe). It is often found in conjunction with Hallux valgus (where the bone at the big toe joint shifts laterally toward the other 4 toes). Another type of bunion is a Tailor’s Bunion, also called a Bunionette. It is located at the 5th metatarsal (little toe) and is an inflammation of the bursa sack at that joint.
A bunion at the first metatarsal joint is painful in some cases and not in others. Where there is redness and irritation from rubbing on the shoe, it could progress to a breakdown of the skin and then to ulceration. This is dangerous for diabetics as healing can be very difficult in this part of the body. A tailor’s bunion, in contrast, is nearly always painful.
Other names or similar foot conditions:
- Often found in conjunction with Hallux valgus
- Family toe
- Tailor’s Bunion (5th digit)
- Bunionette (5th digit)
Symptoms:
- Irritated skin surrounding the joint
- Pain and enlargement of the bursa site
- Stiffness and cramping of the big toe and/or little toe
- Callus formation on the underside of the joint at the big toe and/or little toe
Signs to look for:
- Recurring pain and swelling of the joint(s)
- Callus formation on the underside of the joint at the big toe and/or little toe
- Shoes stretched or running over at joint(s)
- For bunionette, does customer sit long periods on floor with legs crossed?
Possible Causes:
- Heredity
- Abnormal biomechanics (overpronation)
- Arthritis
Goals:
- Take pressure off the bunion
- Allow adequate room in shoes
- Balance pressure across entire foot
- Prevent further progression of the bunion
How We Help:
Arch Supports:
- BioOrthotics exercising support with metatarsal lift
- Lower and thinner arch support with longitudinal and metatarsal support for use when shoes cannot accommodate the BioOrthotics exercising support
Shoes:
- Extra depth, double or triple depth shoe with high toe box, firm heel counter, rocker sole and connecting shank
- Smart footwear, such as heel to toe rockers, negative heel shoes or shoes with titanium springs
- Avoid flip-flops. Only wear sandals with a back and only the Orthaheel, Alegria or Aetrex brand
- Shoes with stretchable uppers or sides if bunions and/or hammertoe(s) rub on shoe
- Wear pumps and high heels only as long as absolutely necessary
- Go barefoot on minimal basis only
Other:
- Spot stretching with ball and ring stretcher
- Bunion shield (if it fits in the shoe without further squeezing the area)
- Bunion regulator
- Regular callus filing with pumice device (leaving cutting of calluses to a physician only)
Activities:
- Rotate high impact exercising with low impact exercising, such as jogging or basketball (high impact) with swimming or bicycling (low impact)
This information does not constitute a diagnosis of your condition and does not take the place of a doctor’s care. The information has been compiled from sources available to the general public and referenced below. Copyright 2005-2010 Carole Romig
Sources Image: 2003 Drew Shoe Catalog Text: PFA, Professional Shoe Fitting, 2003 Drew Shoe Catalog