Bunion

Bunion

One of the Foot disorders

A bunion is an abnormal, bony bump that forms on the joint at the base of your big toe. Bunions form when your big toe pushes up against your other toes, forcing your big toe joint in the opposite direction, away from normal profile of your foot. Over time, the abnormal position enlarges your big toe joint, further crowding your other toes and causing pain.

Causes

Bunions develop when the pressures of bearing and shifting your weight fall unevenly on the joints and tendons in your feet. This imbalance in pressure makes your big toe joint unstable, eventually molding the parts of the joint into a hard knob that juts out beyond the normal shape of your foot.

Causes of bunions include:

• High-heeled or ill-fitting shoes
• Inherited foot type
• Foot injuries
• Deformities present at birth (congenital)

Bunions may be associated with various forms of arthritis, including inflammatory or degenerative forms, causing the protective cartilage that covers your big toe joint to deteriorate. An occupation that puts extra stress on your feet or one that requires you to wear pointed shoes also can be a cause.

Smaller bunions — bunionettes — can also develop on the joint of your little toes.

Home remedies

• Changing shoes. Wear roomy, comfortable shoes that provide plenty of space for your toes.
• Padding and taping. Your doctor can help you tape and pad your foot in a normal position. This can reduce stress on the bunion and alleviate your pain.
• Shoe inserts. Padded shoe inserts can help distribute pressure evenly when you move your feet, reducing your symptoms and preventing your bunion from getting worse. Over-the-counter arch supports can provide relief for some people, though others may require prescription orthotic devices.
• Comfrey (topically) is used for the treatment of bedsores, bites and stings, bruises, inflamed bunions, burns, dry skin, leg ulcers, nosebleeds and scabies.
• Calcarea Carbonica (homeopathy) is used for backaches, joint pain, bone growths, or even bunions.

Medical Disclaimer

This information is not meant to be substituted for medical advice. Always consult a medical professional regarding any medical problems and before undertaking any treatment or dietary changes.