Conditions Treated Foot & Ankle Bunions

Bunions

Bunions, medically known as hallux valgus, are bony protrusions that form at the base of the big toe where it meets the foot. They occur when the big toe pushes against the adjacent toe, forcing the joint of the big toe to enlarge and protrude outward. A bunion can develop gradually over time due to various factors, including genetic predisposition, wearing ill-fitting shoes that crowd the toes, and abnormalities in foot structure or mechanics.

Individuals with bunions may experience symptoms such as pain, swelling, redness, and tenderness at the base of the big toe. As the bunion progresses, it can cause the big toe to drift toward the other toes, leading to a misalignment of the foot and changes in gait.

Most Common Stress Fractures

Structural bunions are the most typical type and occur when the joint at the base of the big toe becomes misaligned, causing the big toe to drift towards the second toe. This misalignment creates a bony prominence on the inner side of the foot, known as a bunion. Structural bunions often result from biomechanical issues, such as flat feet or abnormal foot mechanics, combined with genetic predispositions.

Acquired bunions develop over time due to repetitive stress or pressure on the big toe joint. Factors contributing to acquired bunions include wearing tight or ill-fitting shoes, high heels, or participating in activities that place excessive strain on the feet. Over time, this pressure can cause the joint to become misaligned, leading to the formation of a bunion.

Juvenile bunions occur in children and adolescents and are often associated with developmental abnormalities or biomechanical issues in the feet. These bunions may develop during periods of rapid growth or as a result of congenital conditions such as metatarsus adductus (a foot deformity characterized by a curved or "C-shaped" foot).

Rheumatoid arthritis, an autoimmune condition that affects the joints, can also cause bunions. In RA bunions, inflammation and damage to the joint tissues lead to joint deformities, including the formation of bunions. RA bunions may be more severe and progressive compared to structural or acquired bunions and often require specialized treatment approaches.

Bunions can also be associated with bursitis, which is inflammation of the bursa, a fluid-filled sac that cushions and protects the joint. In bursitis bunions, the bursa adjacent to the bunion becomes inflamed and swollen, causing additional pain and discomfort. Bursitis bunions may develop as a secondary complication of structural or acquired bunions or due to repetitive friction or pressure on the affected area.

Personalized Bunion Treatment in Montgomery County, Maryland

Get specialized care for bunions at The Centers for Advanced Orthopaedics: Maryland Orthopedic Specialists Division. Our dedicated team of specialists offers tailored solutions to address the discomfort, inflammation, and restricted movement associated with bunions. Whether you're experiencing pain while walking, difficulty finding comfortable footwear, or limited mobility in your big toe joint, we're here to provide relief and improve your foot health. Contact us at (301) 515-0900 or easily schedule your appointment online to begin your journey toward recovery and enhanced foot function.