The bunion, or hallux valgus, is a condition that affects the bones and joints associated with the great toe. It is one of the most common deformities of the forefoot. The condition develops slowly and results from the gradual dislocation of the joint, usually because of instability during gait. There is a displacement of the first metatarsal bone toward the mid-line of the body, and a simultaneous displacement of the great toe away from the mid-line (and toward the smaller toes). This causes a prominence of bone on the inside (medial) margin of the forefoot, this is termed a bunion.
Overview of the bone anatomy of a bunion:
What the doctor may do
- Apply special pads and dressings to protect the bunion from shoe pressure.
- Inject steroid and local anesthetic around the bunion to reduce inflammation. This is especially useful if there is an associated bursitis.
- Recommend commercially available or custom made shoes.
- Prescribe functional orthotics (insoles) to correct faulty foot function, and help prevent worsening of the deformity.
- Recommend bunion surgery to correct the deformity
