A bunion can be a painful and progressive deformity of the big toe joint. Bunions are often described as deformities of the metatarsalophalangeal (MTPJ), also known as the big toe joint. Bunions develop from secondary to changes at the MTPJ and cause excessive bone growth. This leads to the mal alignment of the MTPJ leading to a bump called Hallux Abducto Valgus (HAV) or bunion deformity.
Visually, bunions are seen as the big toe leans against the second toe with a bump on the medial or inside part of the MTPJ. HAV deformities are often progressive in nature and patients report a history of the bump increasing in size, with symptoms of higher pain levels.
Patients often complain of painful burning, soreness, and numbness around the MTPJ and around the site of the HAV or the bump.
Bunion deformities are caused by faulty mechanics of a person’s foot. Some individuals are more prone to bunion deformities due to inherited foot conditions. Wearing high heeled shoes and inappropriate footwear often cause of a bunion deformity to develop and worsen. Improper support can lead to the progression of pain.
The doctors at Progressive Foot Care have years of experience with bunion deformities. They offer a wide range of treatment options from custom insole devices and physical therapy to surgical treatment. If you suffer from bunion pain make an appointment to see one of the doctors at Progressive Foot Care.