CHECK-UP:Bunions can be caused by ill-fitting shoes, writes MARION CARR.
I have a pain in my big toe. In addition, the toe is turning in towards the other toe with a bony bump on the side. Please don’t say it’s a bunion as I’m only in my early thirties.
If it helps I won’t call it a bunion – but instead will refer to it by its Latin name, Hallux Valgus. Regardless of what we call it, it does sound like a bunion. The problem is most commonly caused by the prolonged wearing of poorly fitting shoes, usually narrow, pointed ones that squeeze toes into an unnatural position. This probably explains why the condition is nine times more common in women than men. However, it can also develop as a result of other conditions, such as arthritis or polio.
What can I do about it?
To help relieve the problem, wear shoes that fit properly and conform to the shape of your foot. Even at your age, it is important to have your feet measured before buying shoes.
Remember that your feet can be different sizes, so always get shoes that fit the largest foot, and use an insole in the other shoe to make up the difference.
Feet have a tendency to swell as the day goes on, so try to get shoes fitted at the end of the day. Never buy tight shoes with the intentions of “stretching” them – this rarely works.
And don’t forget to check that there is approximately half an inch room between the end of your longest toe and the tip of the shoe.
In addition, you may require a splint to reposition the big toe or custom-made inserts to relieve the pain. If the problem is caused by arthritis, medications may help reduce inflammation and swelling.
Might I need surgery?
Surgery may be recommended if there is deformity of the joint or severe foot pain that limits your daily activities.
It may also be needed if you are experiencing chronic inflammation and swelling that does not respond to medication, or if you are unable to bend or straighten your toe.
It would be wise to see a podiatrist or orthopaedic surgeon, who will confirm the diagnosis and advise you on management and possible surgical treatment of the condition.
Hallux Valgus (bunion)
A bunion is a painful deformity of the bones and joint between the foot and the big toe. Chronic inflammation from arthritis, poorly-fitting shoes, or heredity causes the joint to thicken and enlarge. This causes the bones of the big toe to angle in toward and over the second toe, the metatarsal to angle out toward the other foot, and the skin to thicken.