Understanding Bunions: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment – A Conversation with Dr. Priya

It was a chilly morning at the local park, and I had just finished my usual jog when I spotted Helen, one of my neighbors. She was sitting on a bench, rubbing her feet with a pained expression. Concerned, I walked over to her.

“Helen, are you alright?” I asked, sitting down beside her.

She sighed. “Oh, Dr. Priya, it’s these shoes. No matter what I wear, my feet hurt. And look at this bump on my big toe! It feels like it’s getting worse. I think it’s a bunion.”

I took a closer look at her foot and immediately recognized the tell-tale signs of a bunion—a swollen, inflamed bump on the side of her big toe.

What is a Bunion?

A bunion, medically known as hallux valgus, is an inflamed bursa (a small sac of fluid) that develops on the joint at the base of the big toe. The condition causes the big toe to lean toward the second toe, leading to a bony bump on the side of the foot. This deformity can cause pain, swelling, and difficulty finding comfortable footwear.

Interestingly, the term bunion originates from the Latin word bunionem, meaning “large lump.” And that’s precisely what it feels like—a bothersome lump that can interfere with daily life.

Helen’s complaint is far from rare. According to a study published in the Journal of Foot and Ankle Research, bunions affect nearly 23% of adults aged 18-65 and over 35% of those aged 65 and older. It’s a common foot condition, especially in women.

What Causes Bunions?

As Helen and I continued our conversation, I explained the various causes of bunions.

“Bunions can be caused by several factors, Helen,” I began. “The most common causes include:

1. Family history of foot abnormalities – If your parents or grandparents had bunions, you’re more likely to develop them.
2. Arthritis of the big toe joint – Conditions like osteoarthritis can lead to bunion formation.
3. Badly fitting footwear – Wearing narrow, pointed, or high-heeled shoes can compress the toes and increase the risk of bunions.”

Helen nodded, looking down at her stylish but snug shoes.

Research conducted by the American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society highlights that women who regularly wear high heels are more likely to develop bunions due to the unnatural positioning of the foot.

Symptoms of Bunions

“But how did I not notice this earlier?” Helen asked.

I explained that bunions often develop gradually over time, which can make them easy to overlook in the early stages. However, once they become noticeable, the symptoms can include:

• A bony protrusion on the side of the big toe
• Pain or tenderness in the affected area
• Swelling or redness around the joint
• Restricted movement of the big toe
• Corns or calluses caused by overlapping toes

In a study published in The Journal of Clinical Orthopaedics and Trauma, researchers found that bunions can significantly impact a person’s quality of life, particularly when it comes to walking and finding suitable footwear.

How Common are Bunions?

“Is this really common, Dr. Priya?” Helen asked.

“Absolutely,” I reassured her. “Bunions are more common than you might think. They tend to run in families, and women are more likely to develop them than men. In fact, studies show that women are three times more likely to suffer from bunions.”

According to data from the National Health Service (NHS), approximately one-third of women experience bunion-related discomfort at some point in their lives. The condition can also affect men and children, although it’s less common.

Can Bunions Occur Elsewhere?

Helen raised an interesting question. “So, is it just the big toe that gets affected?”

I smiled. “Not necessarily. There’s a condition known as a bunionette or tailor’s bunion, which occurs on the opposite side of the foot, over the little toe. It’s less common but can be just as painful.”

What Happens to the Big Toe?

“One thing I’ve noticed is that my big toe seems to be angling toward my other toes,” Helen observed.

I explained, “That’s part of the deformity. The big toe gets pushed out of alignment and starts to overlap with the second toe. This can cause a hammer toe, where the toe becomes permanently bent.”

What are the Complications of Bunions?

“If left untreated, bunions can lead to several complications,” I continued.

These include:

• Bursitis – Inflammation of the bursa, causing additional swelling and pain.
• Osteoarthritis – Wear and tear of the joint can lead to arthritis.
• Corn and callus formation – Due to the constant rubbing and pressure.

A study in the International Journal of Foot and Ankle Surgery highlighted that untreated bunions can increase the risk of joint degeneration, making early intervention crucial.

Self-Help Measures

“So, what can I do to relieve the pain?” Helen asked.

I shared some practical self-help measures:

• Wear comfortable shoes with ample room for your toes.
• Use arch supports to alleviate pressure on the bunion.
• Apply ice packs to reduce swelling and discomfort.
• Wear a protective pad over the bunion to minimize friction.

When to Seek Professional Help

“What if it gets worse?” Helen inquired.

“If self-care measures aren’t enough, it’s time to see a podiatrist or orthopedic specialist,” I advised. “Treatment options can range from non-invasive approaches to surgery.”

Treatment Options

Here’s what professional treatment may involve:

• Medication – Anti-inflammatory drugs can help reduce pain and swelling.
• Orthotic devices – Custom shoe inserts can provide better support.
• Surgery – In severe cases, a procedure known as a bunionectomy may be necessary to correct the deformity.

According to research published in the Journal of Foot Surgery, surgical correction of bunions has a high success rate, with most patients reporting significant pain relief and improved mobility.

Prevention Tips

“Is there anything I can do to prevent bunions from getting worse?” Helen asked.

“Absolutely,” I replied.

Some preventative measures include:

• Choosing the right footwear – Avoid tight, narrow, or high-heeled shoes.
• Maintaining a healthy weight – Excess weight can put added pressure on your feet.
• Performing foot exercises – Regular stretching can help keep your feet flexible.

Breaking the Myth

One common myth about bunions is that they’re solely caused by bad shoes. While footwear plays a role, it’s not the only factor. Genetics and underlying medical conditions can also contribute to bunion development.

“Thank you so much, Dr. Priya,” Helen said with a smile. “I feel much more informed now. Time to go shoe shopping—sensibly, of course!”

We both laughed, and as I walked back home, I felt grateful for moments like these when I could share my knowledge to help others live healthier, more comfortable lives.

FAQs About Bunions