A Guide to Different Types of Bunions
Medical information provided by Steven Gershman DPM / modules.article.writtenOn July 21, 2024 Blog HomeIntroduction to bunions
Bunions, or Hallux Valgus in doctor speak, are more than just a fashion hurdle. These bony bumps at the base of your big toe, caused by a joint misalignment, can be painful and very uncomfortable.
Often passed down through families, bunions are especially common in women due to biological factors, and if left unaddressed, the discomfort and inflammation they often cause typically worsen over time.
Dr. Steven Gershman, DPM, explains that bunions are formed at the joint where the first metatarsal bone meets the big toe. This joint, which bears significant weight and force during movement, becomes misaligned, causing the first metatarsal to protrude outward. This protrusion, accompanied by a fluid-filled sac (bursa) and soft tissue swelling, forms the characteristic bump of a bunion.
But, not all bunions are created equal.
Why understanding different types of bunions matters
Recognizing and identifying the different types of bunions is essential for tailoring treatment and management strategies effectively. Bunions can develop in different locations on the foot, with varying causes and symptoms.
Understanding the specific type of bunion you have allows you and your podiatrist to:
Different types of bunions have different underlying causes. Knowing the cause helps in developing a treatment plan that addresses the root issue, not just the symptoms.
Treatment approaches can vary depending on the type of bunion. Some might benefit from orthotics or specific exercises, while others might require different interventions.
Early intervention and proper management can help prevent bunions from worsening and causing additional discomfort or limitations.
Identifying different types of bunions
Bunions can manifest in various forms, each with unique characteristics and locations on the foot. Here are the main types of bunions you might encounter.
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The common bunion
The typical bunion, medically known as hallux valgus, forms on the inner side of the foot at the big toe joint. This condition causes the big toe to veer towards the smaller toes, creating a noticeable bump on the inside of the foot.
As mentioned above, this misalignment occurs as the first metatarsal bone shifts outwards, creating a bony protrusion that can become inflamed and painful due to friction and pressure from shoes.
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Tailor’s bunion (bunionette)
Tailor’s bunion, or bunionette, appears on the outside of the foot at the base of the little toe. Unlike the common bunion, which affects the big toe, a bunionette forms on the fifth metatarsal bone.
This condition is often caused by wearing shoes that don’t fit correctly or engaging in activities that press the little toe inward towards the other toes. The resulting pressure creates a similar bony bump and associated discomfort, although in a different location than the typical bunion [1].
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Bunion with hallux limitus
A bunion with hallux limitus involves a bunion accompanied by reduced flexibility and movement in the big toe. This condition leads to stiffness and pain in the toe joint, making it uncomfortable and difficult to walk. Hallux limitus can progress to hallux rigidus, a more severe form where the joint loses all mobility, further complicating movement and increasing pain levels [2].
Addressing the bony bump caused by bunion deformity is crucial for alleviating bunions and reducing associated discomfort. Effective bunion treatment may also address issues like an ingrown toenail on the second toe or little toe, which can sometimes occur as a complication from improper footwear.
Causes and contributing factors
From genetic predispositions to lifestyle choices, various elements contribute to this common foot condition.
Genetic predisposition
Are bunions genetic? Yes! Genetics play a significant role in the development of bunions, including:
If your family has a history of bunions, you are more likely to develop them. A study found that bunion deformities are present in at least two family members in 90% of cases [3].
Specific foot shapes and structures, such as excessive pronation or flat feet, can increase the risk of bunions.
According to Dr. Gershman, women tend to have more flexible joints and ligaments, which can exacerbate any existing biomechanical flaws, leading to bunion formation.
H3: Footwear and lifestyle choices
The type of footwear and lifestyle choices significantly impact bunion development and progression. These include:
Wearing shoes that are too tight, narrow, or have high heels, and no cushioning insoles with arch support can increase the pressure on your big toe joint, pushing it out of alignment and contributing to bunion formation. Wearing wide-fit shoes or stretching your shoes wider can help alleviate foot pain and reduce the risk of further bunion formation by decreasing pressure on the affected area.
Shoes with a narrow toe box force the toes into an unnatural position, exacerbating the misalignment.
High-impact sports and activities that put excessive pressure on the feet can lead to or worsen bunions.
Maintaining a healthy weight is important, as excess body weight increases the pressure on your feet, particularly on the big toe joint, thereby increasing the likelihood of developing bunions [5].
H2: Treatment options
Bunions can significantly impact your daily life. Thankfully, there are a number of treatment options you can explore to manage your bunion and regain foot health.
H3: Non-surgical treatments
Non-surgical approaches and home remedies for bunions focus on managing bunion symptoms and slowing down their progression.
Gel pads can cushion and protect the bunion from friction and irritation caused by footwear [6].
These bunion socks are designed with a built-in separator to keep the big toe from rubbing against the other toes, reducing irritation. The best ones are made with soft materials that wick away moisture.
Choosing shoes with a wide toe box, wider width, quality cushioning and good arch support can alleviate pressure on the bunion and improve comfort [6]. Explore our shoes for bunions, including specialized collections of shoes for women with bunions and men's shoes for bunions, designed to provide the necessary support and ease discomfort.
Specific bunion exercises such as toe stretches and foot strengthening exercises, can help maintain flexibility and strengthen the muscles around the affected area [5].
Applying ice packs wrapped in a thin towel to the bunion area can reduce inflammation and relieve pain [6].
Over-the-counter medications like NSAIDs can help manage pain and inflammation associated with bunions [6].
Opting for low-impact activities that reduce stress on the feet, such as swimming or cycling, can alleviate symptoms [5].
Elevating and resting the feet regularly can reduce swelling and discomfort [5].
Regularly massaging the feet and gently moving the big toe can improve circulation and reduce stiffness [5].
Surgical interventions
When non-surgical treatments fail to provide adequate relief, surgery may be considered. If you are experiencing severe bunion pain that isn't alleviated by proper shoe choices and non-surgical treatments, bunion surgery might be necessary to address the issue.
If bunions severely affect daily activities and non-surgical measures are ineffective, consulting a podiatrist is advisable [6].
Various surgical options exist depending on the severity of the bunion deformity. These may involve realignment of the bone, removal of swollen tissue, or joint fusion [6].
After surgery, patients can expect swelling and discomfort for several weeks. Physical therapy may be recommended to regain strength and mobility in the foot [6].
References[1] Bunions (Hallux Valgus). Cleveland Clinic. September 18, 2023. Accessed June 25, 2024. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/14386-bunions-hallux-valgus
[2] WebMD Editorial Contributors, medically reviewed by David Zelman, MD. What Is Hallux Limitus?. WebMD. May 01, 2023. Accessed June 25, 2024. https://www.webmd.com/osteoarthritis/what-is-hallux-limitus
[3] Carlos Piqué-Vidal MD, María T. Solé MD , Jaume Antich MD. Hallux Valgus Inheritance: Pedigree Research in 350 Patients With Bunion Deformity. ScienceDirect. 25 April, 2007. Accessed June 25, 2024. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1067251606005308
[4] Yi-Hsiang Hsu, Youfang Liu, Marian T Hannan, William Maixner, Shad B Smith, Luda Diatchenko, Yvonne M Golightly, Hylton B Menz, Virginia B Kraus, Michael Doherty, AG Wilson, Joanne M Jordan. Genome-wide association meta-analyses to identify common genetic variants associated with hallux valgus in Caucasian and African Americans. Journal of Medical Genetics. Accessed June 25, 2024. https://jmg.bmj.com/content/52/11/762.short