Bunions, known officially as Hallux Valgus, are a common deformity of the great toe joint of the foot. It is something that may occur in juveniles, but the majority of bunion deformities are a progressive deformity, meaning that the bunion will start out small and increase in size over time.
There is a common misconception that a bunion is simply a bump on the side of the foot and that if it overgrows it can be “shaved off.” This is not true. The bunion is typically a 3-dimensional malalignment of the first metatarsal bone. This misalignment can lead to arthritic changes in the great toe joint and cause pain when walking.
Bunions may be caused by: Genetic predisposition (usually run in the Family), Biomechanical abnormalities, Arthritis and unstable foot type.
Despite what we advertisements we may see online or on Facebook, bunions will NOT go away on their own.
Conservative treatments include good shoe gear with a wide forefoot and toe box, orthotics, toe spacers and toe exercises for the great toe joint.
If a bunion deformity is painful and does not respond to conservative treatment, then surgical correction may be the best option. The goal of the surgery is to realign the deformity back to its normal position. Ideally, this should be done in all three planes of the deformity. Screws, plates and staples may be used and do not require removal unless they are bothersome, which is rare. Early weight bearing is encouraged and typically one may return to sneakers in 6-8 weeks with increased physical activity resuming 4-6 months after surgery. If you are having issues with a painful bunion, see your Podiatrist.
About Seth Steber, DPM, FACFAS, CWSP
Dr. Seth Steber is a Board-certified Surgical Podiatrist with Meadowview Orthopedic Care Center. A graduate of the Pennsylvania College of Podiatric Medicine at Temple University, Dr. Steber has over 30 years of experience in treating podiatry patients. He specializes in foot and ankle reconstructive surgery, bunion and hammertoe repair, lower extremity wound care and diabetic foot care, neuropathy and nerve pathology. Dr. Steber is accepting new patients in Maysville at the Meadowview Orthopedic Care Center and in Flemingsburg at the Gorman Medical Arts Building. To schedule an appointment, please call 606.849.2199.
