If you’ve clicked on this page, you might be wondering about that bump on the side of your big toe or the strange shape of your small toes. Maybe you’re curious if you should see a podiatrist or surgeon about it? The short answer we like to give is: Seek an assessment of the joints and exhaust all your conservative options first!
What is a Bunion?
A bunion, or hallux valgus, is more than just a bump on the side of your big toe; it’s a progressive dislocation of the joint at the base of the big toe, known as the metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint. This condition develops over time as the bones in the front part of your foot gradually shift out of their normal position. As the big toe deviates toward the smaller toes, the MTP joint becomes misaligned, leading to the characteristic bony bump on the side of the foot.
This bump is not merely a growth but rather a complex deformity. It can represent a collapsed joint where the bones have lost their normal alignment. In some cases, the bony bump includes a bony joint margin formed as a compensatory mechanism to the joint’s abnormal position. This compensatory bone growth is the body’s attempt to stabilise the joint amidst the ongoing dislocation.
As the bunion progresses, it can cause significant discomfort, inflammation, and pain, especially when wearing shoes that put pressure on the affected area. The severity of a bunion can vary, but it’s essential to address the condition early to prevent further complications and deterioration.
Toe Deformities of the Lesser Toes
Toe deformities can also affect the lesser toes (the four smaller toes). These deformities can cause discomfort and affect the foot’s overall function. Here are some common types:
- Hammertoe: This occurs when the middle joint of the toe becomes bent, causing the toe to curl downward. It often affects the second, third, or fourth toe and can lead to corns and calluses due to friction with footwear.
- Mallet Toe: Similar to hammertoe, but it affects the joint closest to the toenail, causing the toe to bend downward at the tip. This deformity can cause pain at the tip of the toe and nail.
- Claw Toe: This condition involves the toes bending upward from the ball of the foot and then curling downward, resembling a claw. It can affects any of the four lesser toes and can cause significant discomfort and difficulty wearing shoes.
How Can a Podiatrist Help?
If you’re dealing with bunions or toe deformities, it is important to seek advice as early as possibly to try and put a stop to its progression and get your toes back on track.
- Footwear Advice: Proper footwear can make a world of difference. We can recommend shoes with a wide toe box and good arch support to alleviate pressure and reduce discomfort.
- Orthotics: Custom orthotics can help redistribute pressure across your feet or offload the pressure point, providing relief from pain and preventing the progression of deformities.
- Padding and toe spacers: We can apply foam/silicone pads or toe spacers to help reduce pressure and rubbing. We also have the option of customised silicone toe spacers, moulded specifically to your toes.
When to Consider Surgical Advice
While conservative treatments can be highly effective for many people, there are instances when surgical intervention may be necessary. If you’re experiencing severe pain that interferes with your daily activities, if your bunion or toe deformity is rapidly worsening, or if conservative treatments haven’t provided relief, it may be time to consult with your doctor about surgical options.
