A bunion is an enlargement at the base of the big toe caused by a mal-alignment of the joint. It may be swollen, tender and painful, especially when wearing shoes.

Statistics:

• 8 out of 1,000 males have a bunion.
• 38 out of 1,000 females have a bunion.
• 55 out of 1,000 people aged 65 or older have a bunion.
• 63% of patients with bunions see a podiatrist.

Causes of bunions:

• Heredity
• Biomechanical abnormalities
• Neuromuscular disorders
• Inflammatory joint disease (arthritis)
• Trauma
• Congenital deformities
• Ill-fitting shoes

What can you do?

• Wear a shoe with good support and a wide toe box.
• Apply cold compresses.
• Soak the foot in lukewarm water to relieve pain.
• Use over-the-counter foot pads.
• Use over-the-counter anti-inflammatories.

What can a podiatrist do for you?

• Perform a physical examination of the foot.
• Request X-ray, bone scan, CT, MRI or other imaging studies.
• Recommend padding or taping.
• Prescribe orthoses as needed.
• Perform surgery as indicated.

Source: B.C. Association of Podiatrists, American Podiatric Medical Association