The word "bunion" comes from the Latin word "bunio", which means "enlargement".

When referring to the foot, a bunion is an enlargement of the big toe's joint (also known as the "metatarsal-phalange" or "MTP" joint) that forms when the bone or tissue at that joint moves out of place. This abnormal movement forces the big toe to bend inward toward the smaller toes (a condition called "hallux valgus") and causes a painful lump on the side of the foot at the base of the big toe. Since this part of the foot carries a lot of the body's weight while walking, bunions can be very painful if left untreated.

When this type of enlargement occurs on the joint of the pinky toe, it is called a "bunionette" or "Tailor's Bunion".

• Restricted or painful motion of the toes
• Redness, swelling, stiffness or pain at or near the toe joint
• Development of a firm bump on the outside edge of the foot at the base of the toe joint
• Irritations caused by overlapping toes, such as corns or blisters

• Abnormal joint stress over an extended period of time, including:
  
  • frequently wearing footwear that squeeze toes together, such as pointy-toed high-heeled shoes
  • participating in activities that place undue stress on feet, such as ballet dancing
• Hereditary factors
• Arthritis / inflammatory joint disease
• Neuromuscular disorders
• Flat feet / low arches
• Birth defects

In some cases, wearing comfortable shoes with a wide toe box that stops toes from being squeezed together can help prevent development of a bunion. Unfortunately, if hereditary factors are involved or if the condition results from another existing ailment, a bunion may not be preventable.

A podiatrist should be visited at the first sign of a bunion, particularly since this foot doctor can usually identify the condition early in its development.

Although a severe bunion may require surgery, the progression of the condition in non-severe cases can sometimes be slowed, and surgery may be able to be postponed, by:

• Re-evaluating footwear

• Wearing a footcare device, such as a toe spacer, foot splint or shoe orthotic

• Visco-GEL Toe Spacers
• Adjustable Bunion DaySplint
• Bunion Regulator
• Bunion Relievers
• Gel Moleskin
• Visco-Gel Bunion Cushion
• Tubular-Foam Toe Bandages
• Visco-GEL Toe Spacers
• 3-Layer Toe Separators
• Toe Cushions

Also, please click here to learn about our Arch Supports & Specialty Insoles which can provide additional help for bunions.

Warning:

We hope these suggestions improve your health and make you more comfortable. However, if you have any concerns about our advice, if any symptom persists for an unreasonable amount of time or if your condition worsens after self-treatment, we encourage you to consult a medical professional for further assistance.

Please note, people with diabetes and poor circulation should always consult a medical professional before performing any self-treatment.