Bunions
Most people can easily self-diagnose bunions (medically referred to as hallux abducto-valgus) as it is seen as a bump at the inside border of your feet. It is caused by destruction of the first or big toe joint, causing malalignment andeventually, lesser toe deformities. You may also develop nail problems with corns and callosities on the sole of your feet. In some cases it may become painful to wear shoes. Your podiatrist at Southlake can help you with all aspects of bunion management, and can discuss your treatment options with you.
Some predisposing factors include:
- Reduced range of motion of the big toe (restricted joint motion)
- Pronation secondary to other lower limb problems (restricted posterior leg muscles: 'ankle equinus', a raised first joint of the foot relative to the rest of the foot: 'metatarsus primus elevatus' (may be bony or acquired)
- A relatively short length of the first long bone of the foot (first metatarsal)
- Structural anomalies of the bones of the lower limb leading to compensatory flat feet
- Trauma to the big toe joint, or dislocation/ amputation of the second toe joint
- There is a vast range of treatment options for bunions that southlake podiatry specialize in
