Bunions
The main thing to know about bunions is that they’re not a bump. A bunion is an angular deformity between the first metatarsal and the proximal phalanx. These two ideally line up to make a straight line, but in a bunion, the toe deviates away from midline, causing the metatarsal to angle inwards. Therefore, correction of a bunion is not removal of a bump. It’s a complex reconstructive surgery in which we change the shape of the foot.
Many surgeons do not understand the cause of bunions and therefore do not understand how to treat them appropriately. For this reason, the term “bunionectomy” or “bunion removal” has become colloquial language. In addition, many patients are dissatisfied with the cosmetic appearance and lack of pain relief from their improper surgeries. No bone should be removed in the treatment of a bunion. The shape of the bones MUST be changed, and the soft tissue has to be tightened.
Causes
There are two main causes of bunions: genetics and shoe wear. Almost all shoes can cause the toe to be squeezed in a way that can cause a bunion, but the more narrow or pointed the shoe, the greater the risk. Some people have an inherited tendency towards persistence of the deformity even with shoes off. Women have this problem more commonly than men, but it can be a painful problem for men as well.
Diagnosis
A set of high-quality weight-bearing (standing) x-rays are required for diagnosis, as well as a thorough physical examination. Specific x-rays will be taken in my office to ensure the highest quality of x-rays.
References
https://www.footcaremd.org/conditions-treatments/toes/bunions
https://orthoinfo.aaos.org/en/diseases–conditions/bunions/
For more information, please contact us by phone 310-437-7922 or email: [email protected].