In most cases it is not
clear why a hallux valgus deformity develops. There may be some genetic
(hereditary) tendency to have a 'weakness' of this joint. In some cases
it is associated with a joint problem such as osteoarthritis or
rheumatoid arthritis.
However, whatever the underlying cause,
wearing tight or badly fitting shoes tends to make symptoms worse.
Wearing such shoes puts extra pressure on the big toe joint and causes
friction on the overlying skin.
What symptoms and problems are caused by bunions?
- Pain. You may then have difficulty walking due to pain.
- Inflammation and swelling at the base of the toe. This sometimes becomes infected.
- The foot may become so wide that it can be difficult to find wide enough shoes.
What is the treatment for bunions?
Good footwear is often all that is needed
Wearing
good footwear does not cure the deformity but may ease symptoms of pain
and discomfort. Ideally, get advice about footwear from a podiatrist or
chiropodist. Advice may include:
- Wear shoes, trainers or slippers that fit well and are roomy.
- Don't wear high-heeled, pointed or tight shoes.
- Padding over the bunion may help
Medication
Painkillers such as paracetamol
or ibuprofen may ease any pain. If the bunion develops as part of an
arthritis then other medication may be advised. A course of antibiotics
may be needed if the skin and tissues over the deformity become
infected.
Surgery
An operation may be advised if a
change of footwear does not ease symptoms. The aim of the operation is
to straighten the joint as much as possible. There are many different
types of operation which are used to treat bunions. These range from
operations to 'trim' parts of the joint, to a total artificial
replacement of the big toe joint (similar to a knee or a hip
replacement). The operation chosen by the specialist depends on the
severity of the bunion, the shape of your foot, and other factors such
as if you have arthritis in the joint.
An operation is usually
successful at easing symptoms, but not in all cases. Your specialist
will be able to advise on the pros and cons of surgery, and the success
rate of the chosen operation.
References
© EMIS and PiP 2008 Updated: 19 Feb 2008
