What Is a Bunion?
A bunion is an enlargement of the joint at the base of the big toe—the metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint—that forms when the bone or tissue at the big toe joint moves out of place. This forces the toe to bend toward the others, causing an often painful lump of bone on the foot. Since this joint carries a lot of the body’s weight while walking, bunions can cause extreme pain if left untreated. The MTP joint itself may become stiff and sore, making even the wearing of shoes difficult or impossible. A bunion–from the Latin "bunio," meaning enlargement–can also occur on the outside of the foot along the little toe, where it is called a "bunionette" or "tailor’s bunion."
Bunion Symptoms
- Development of a firm bump on the outside edge of the foot, at the base of the big toe.
- Redness, swelling, or pain at or near the MTP joint.
- Corns or other irritations caused by the overlap of the first and second toes.
- Restricted or painful motion of the big toe.
WHAT PEOPLE SAY
How Do You Get a Bunion?
Bunions form when the normal balance of forces that is exerted on the joints and tendons of the foot becomes disrupted. This can lead to instability in the joint and cause the deformity. They are brought about by years of abnormal motion and pressure over the MTP joint. They are, therefore, a symptom of faulty foot development and are usually caused by the way we walk, and our inherited foot type, our shoes, or other sources.
Although bunions tend to run in families, it is the foot type that is passed down—not the bunion. Parents who suffer from poor foot mechanics can pass their problematic foot type on to their children, who in turn are prone to developing bunions. The abnormal functioning caused by this faulty foot development can lead to pressure being exerted on and within the foot, often resulting in bone and joint deformities such as bunions and hammertoes.
Other causes of bunions are foot injuries, neuromuscular disorders, or congenital deformities. People who suffer from flat feet or low arches are also prone to developing these problems, as are arthritic patients and those with inflammatory joint disease. Occupations that place undue stress on the feet are also a factor; ballet dancers, for instance, often develop the condition.
Wearing shoes that are too tight or cause the toes to be squeezed together is also a common factor, one that explains the high prevalence of the disorder among women.
Can Bunions Go Away on their Own or will Surgery be Required?
Once a bunion has formed, your toe won’t return to its normal position without surgery. Bunions cannot correct themselves after they have formed. That doesn’t mean you will absolutely need to have surgery, however. Whether or not you need surgery will be a factor of the frequency and level of the pain your bunion is causing, or if it is impeding your daily activities.
How You can Alleviate Your Bunion Pain
- Apply a commercial, nonmedicated bunion pad around the bony prominence.
- Wear shoes with a wide and deep toe box.
- If your bunion becomes inflamed and painful, apply ice packs several times a day to reduce swelling.
- Avoid high-heeled shoes over two inches tall.
- See your podiatric physician if pain persists.
Conservative Treatment For Bunion Pain
Treatment options vary with the type and severity of each bunion, although identifying the deformity early in its development is important in avoiding surgery. Podiatric medical attention should be sought at the first indication of pain or discomfort because, left untreated, bunions tend to get larger and more painful, making nonsurgical treatment less of an option.
The primary goal of most early treatment options is to relieve pressure on the bunion and halt the progression of the joint deformity. A podiatric physician may recommend these treatments
Padding & Taping
Often the first step in a treatment plan, padding the bunion minimizes pain and allows the patient to continue a normal, active life. Taping helps keep the foot in a normal position, thus reducing stress and pain.
Medication
Anti-inflammatory drugs and cortisone injections are often prescribed to ease the acute pain and inflammations caused by joint deformities.
Physical Therapy
Often used to provide relief of the inflammation and from bunion pain. Ultrasound therapy is a popular technique for treating bunions and their associated soft tissue involvement.
Orthotics
Shoe inserts may be useful in controlling foot function and may reduce symptoms and prevent worsening of the deformity.
Bunion Surgical Treatment Options
When early treatments fail or the bunion progresses past the threshold for such options, podiatric surgery may become necessary to relieve pressure and repair the toe joint. Several surgical procedures are available to the podiatric physician. The surgery will remove the bony enlargement, restore the normal alignment of the toe joint, and relieve pain.
A simple bunionectomy, in which only the bony prominence is removed, may be used for the less severe deformity. Severe bunions may require a more involved procedure, which includes cutting the bone and realigning the joint.
Recuperation takes time, and swelling and some discomfort are common for several weeks following surgery. Pain, however, is easily managed with medications prescribed by your podiatric physician.
Is Recovery Involved in All Bunion Treatments?
As mentioned above, the only true treatment or solution for a fully formed bunion is surgery, and this will involve recovery.
Other treatment options, such as padding or taping, orthotics, or even physical therapy, all may enable you to live with your bunion. The goal in these conservative treatment options is to control your pain and try to keep your foot in a normal position. None of these conservative treatment options involve any recovery.
How to Prepare for Bunionectomy Surgery
Preparation depends upon how extensive your bunion is, as this will dictate the surgical method we need to use to address it. For a simple bunionectomy, we may have you in a bunion shoe and you’ll be able to walk immediately. That won’t create wholesale changes in your lifestyle. But if we need to cut the bone and place screws, you’ll need to keep all weight off that foot. This will obviously create inconvenience in some areas of your life.
When your Precision Foot and Ankle doctor is discussing our options prior to your surgery, you’ll know what to expect and you can prepare accordingly.
As with any surgery, you’ll need to stop taking blood thinners, aspirin, anti-inflammatory medications, and most herbal supplements a few days prior to your procedure, as these can cause increased bleeding.
How Painful is Recovery after a Bunionectomy?
After your surgery before we apply your dressing, your Precision Foot and Ankle surgeon will numb your foot with a long-acting anesthetic that should get you through the first night. After that, you’ll need to manage the pain with prescription pain medication. You’ll have the most pain during the first three days after your surgery. But there will be some moderate pain involved in your recovery.
How long it can take to fully heal after a Bunionectomy
If your surgery involved cutting or removing bone, which most do, then it will take about 6 weeks for the bone to mend. This cannot be rushed or accelerated. Following that, you will have rehabilitation. The timeframe for full recovery, where you can get back to running or other impact exercise, may take up to six months.
What results can I expect after my bunion surgery?
Research has shown that over 85 percent of those who have had bunion surgery are satisfied with the outcome of their surgery. Most of the other 15 percent have strong improvement, but still have some pain and limitations.
But if you’re in daily pain just walking around the house, bunion surgery with our two Precision Foot and Ankle podiatric surgeons could be one of the best things you’ve ever elected to do.
Can my bunion return after having bunion surgery?
Recurrence of a bunion can happen. Statistics show that as many as 16 percent of people having a bunionectomy have a new bunion develop in future years. This doesn’t have to happen, but it will take some changes. First off, it’s important to remember that the bunionectomy performed by your surgeon targeted your existing bunion. That doesn’t mean physics and other forces can’t create another bunion in the future.
The reason most bunions return is the same reason they form in the first place — there is abnormal movement of a set of joints found just below your ankle. The structure of your foot that created your first bunion can cause a recurrence. This isn’t a failed surgery; it’s simply your anatomy.
But this isn’t a foregone conclusion. That would make bunion surgery a waste of time. We will work with you to make the changes necessary to ensure your bunionectomy removes your bunion and your pain for the long haul.
How you can prevent a Bunion from returning
The first step is to follow your Precision Foot and Ankle podiatric surgeon’s instructions for your physical rehabilitation after your bunionectomy. This will likely involve both physical therapy and exercises and stretches you will perform on your own.
We will often recommend our patients wear a removable splint at night. These soft splints work to prevent shifting of your realigned toe.
We’ll likely want to get you into a pair of custom orthotics for your shoes. These are designed to keep your foot joints in alignment, providing the stability to the big toe joint necessary to stop the formation of a bunion.
We’ll also recommend some lifestyle changes. Certain forms of footwear are more likely to encourage the development of a bunion. High heels are the main culprit, although any shoes with an overly small toe box are problematic. If you must wear high heels, it’s wise to do so less frequently.
Bunion Tips
- Wear comfortable shoes that conform to the shape of your foot.
- Wear shoes with a wide and deep toe box.
- Always fit the larger foot and have your feet sized each time you purchase shoes.
- Apply a commercial, nonmedicated bunion pad around the bony prominence.
- If your bunion becomes inflamed and painful, apply ice packs several times a day to reduce swelling.
Avoid high-heeled shoes over two inches tall. - Seek professional podiatric evaluation and assistance with uncomfortable or noticeable bunions.
The Doctors at the Precision Foot and Ankle have been trained specifically and extensively in the diagnosis and treatment of all manner of foot conditions. This training encompasses all of the intricately related systems and structures of the foot and lower leg including neurological, circulatory, skin, and the musculoskeletal system, which includes bones, joints, ligaments, tendons, muscles, and nerves.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Bunions
What happens if I don't treat a bunion?
Bunions typically don't go away on their own. In many cases, they slowly become more severe over time. As the big toe continues to shift inward, you may experience increasing pain, swelling, difficulty finding comfortable shoes, and changes in the way you walk. Untreated bunions can also contribute to problems like hammertoes, arthritis, calluses, and pain in other parts of the foot. The good news is that early treatment can often help slow the progression and relieve discomfort before surgery ever becomes necessary.
How do I know if my bunion needs surgery?
Surgery isn't recommended simply because you have a bunion—it's usually considered when the bunion is causing significant pain or interfering with your daily activities. If you've tried conservative treatments like supportive shoes, custom orthotics, padding, or activity modifications and you're still struggling to walk comfortably, it may be time to discuss surgical options. During your evaluation, we'll examine your foot, take X-rays if needed, and help determine the treatment that's right for you.
Can bunions be prevented?
Not all bunions can be prevented, especially if they're related to inherited foot structure or genetics. However, wearing shoes with a wide toe box, avoiding high heels for extended periods, maintaining a healthy weight, and addressing foot problems early can all help reduce stress on the joint and may slow bunion development.
Are bunions hereditary?
Yes. While shoes can contribute to bunion pain, genetics often play a much larger role. Many people inherit a foot shape or walking pattern that places extra stress on the big toe joint, making bunions more likely to develop. If your parents or grandparents had bunions, your risk may be higher as well.
What are the best shoes to wear if I have a bunion?
The best shoes for bunions have a wide toe box that allows your toes to spread naturally without squeezing them together. Look for supportive shoes with good cushioning and avoid narrow, pointed, or high-heeled shoes whenever possible. If you're unsure which shoes are best for your feet, our podiatrists can recommend footwear and custom orthotics that help reduce pressure and improve comfort.
Can custom orthotics fix a bunion?
Custom orthotics won't make a bunion disappear, but they can be extremely helpful in reducing pain and slowing its progression. By improving foot alignment and reducing abnormal pressure across the big toe joint, orthotics often make walking much more comfortable and can help you stay active longer without surgery.
Can I still exercise if I have a bunion?
In many cases, yes. Staying active is important, and many people with bunions can continue walking, hiking, cycling, swimming, or exercising with a few modifications. Wearing supportive footwear and avoiding activities that increase pain are key. If your bunion is limiting your activity, we can recommend treatments that help you get back to doing the things you enjoy.
Can children and teenagers develop bunions?
Yes. Although bunions are more common in adults, children and teenagers can develop them as well—especially if there's a family history. Juvenile bunions often result from inherited foot structure rather than footwear. Early evaluation allows us to monitor the condition and recommend treatment that may help reduce pain and slow progression while the foot is still developing.
Do bunion correctors or toe spacers actually work?
Toe spacers and bunion correctors may temporarily improve comfort by reducing pressure between the toes, but they don't permanently straighten the toe or eliminate the bunion. Many patients find them helpful as part of a conservative treatment plan, especially when combined with supportive shoes and custom orthotics.
Should I see a podiatrist or an orthopedic surgeon for a bunion?
Both specialists can treat bunions, but podiatrists specialize exclusively in conditions affecting the feet and ankles. At Precision Foot and Ankle, bunion diagnosis and treatment are part of what we do every day. Whether your condition can be managed conservatively or requires surgery, our board-certified podiatrists can guide you through the treatment options that best fit your needs.
Is bunion treatment covered by insurance?
In many cases, yes. Office visits, X-rays, and medically necessary treatment for painful bunions are often covered by insurance. Precision Foot and Ankle accepts many major insurance plans, including Medicare, Select Health, Cigna, Aetna, PEHP, EMI Health, and Optum. If you have questions about your coverage, our team is happy to help verify your benefits before your appointment.
How soon should I see a podiatrist for bunion pain?
It's a good idea to schedule an evaluation when your bunion begins causing pain, makes it difficult to wear your normal shoes, or starts affecting your daily activities. The earlier we evaluate the problem, the more treatment options are typically available. Many patients are surprised by how much relief conservative care can provide when started early.
Common Myths About Bunions
Myth: Bunions are just a bump of extra bone.
Fact: A bunion is actually a change in the alignment of the bones and joint—not simply extra bone growth.
Myth: Only women get bunions.
Fact: Bunions are more common in women, but men and even children can develop them as well.
Myth: Every bunion requires surgery.
Fact: Most bunions can be managed successfully with conservative treatments, especially when caught early.
Myth: Wearing better shoes will make a bunion disappear.
Fact: Better shoes can significantly reduce pain and slow progression, but they won't reverse the deformity.
Myth: If I can tolerate the pain, I don't need treatment.
Fact: Waiting too long can allow the bunion to worsen, making treatment more difficult and potentially limiting your future options.
Schedule a Consultation For Bunion Treatment in UT Today!
If you are experiencing Bunion pain, do not hesitate to contact our top doctors to learn about the treatment options that may be available to you! Fill out the form in our contact form or give us a call. Our practice has offices located in American Fork, Orem, and Payson.
If you are experiencing Bunion pain, do not hesitate to contact our top doctors to learn about the treatment options that may be available to you! Fill out the form in our contact form or give us a call. Our practice has offices located in American Fork, Orem, and Payson.