Bunion Specialist

What is a bunion?

A bunion is a bone deformity caused by an enlargement of the joint at the base and side of the big toe (metatarsophalangeal joint). Bunions form when the toe moves out of place. The enlargement and its protuberance cause friction and pressure as they rub against footwear. Over time, the movement of the big toe angles in toward the other toes, sometimes overlapping a third toe (known as Hallux Valgus). The growing enlargement or protuberance then causes more irritation or inflammation. In some cases, the big toe moves toward the second toe and rotates or twists, which is known as Hallus Abducto Valgus. Bunions can also lead to other toe deformities, such as hammertoe.

Many people with bunions suffer from discomfort and pain from the constant irritation, rubbing, and friction of the enlargement against shoes. The skin over the toe becomes red and tender. Because this joint flexes with every step, the bigger the bunion gets, the more it hurts to walk. Over time, bursitis or arthritis may set in, the skin on the bottom of the foot may become thicker, and everyday walking may become difficult—all contributing to chronic pain.

Wearing shoes that are too tight is the leading cause of bunions. Bunions are not hereditary, but they do tend to run in families, usually because of a faulty foot structure. Foot injuries, neuromuscular problems, flat feet, and pronated feet can contribute to their formation. Dr. Tabari specializes in finding just the right treatment for you.   

Why do I have a bunion?

Sometimes bunions are inherited defects, while other times they’re caused by lifestyle factors. You may have a bunion due to:

• Family history
• Prior foot injuries
• Birth defects
• Rheumatoid arthritis

Many medical experts believe that wearing narrow shoes or frequently wearing high heels can also increase your risk of having bunions. It’s unclear though if your footwear alone causes bunions, or if you’re just more likely to have them because of your genetics.  

How are bunions treated?

Bunions are permanent joint disfigurements, so once they form you won't be able to get rid of them without surgery. If your bunion isn't causing any pain or discomfort, you might not need any immediate treatment.

But if you're in pain or have difficulty walking because of your bunion, you probably need to have it surgically corrected. Before surgery, Dr. Tabari could see if any of the following non-surgical options work for you:

• Better fitting shoes
• Bunion shields
• Cortisone injections
• Anti-inflammatory medications
• Custom orthopedic inserts

Avoiding treatment for bunions can lead to health concerns. If a bunion is causing problems and is left untreated, it can lead to bursitis, an inflammation of the protective fluid-filled sac between your joints. Some men and women who have bunions develop a hammertoe, which is a painful abnormal bend in the middle joint of one of your toes — usually the toe next to your big toe.

Get relief for your bunion pain by scheduling an appointment with Dr. Tabari. You can schedule either online or over the phone.