Named after the Greek word for ‘turnips’ due to their rounded, red appearance when inflamed, bunions, or ‘hallux valgus’, are bony lumps that form on the side of the big toe when the joint at its base is forced to enlarge and protrude over time, usually as a result of being pushed against the other toes due to long-term narrow toe-box (the front of the shoe) and high heel wear. However, ‘bunionettes’ can also form on the outside of the little toe joint due to excess pressure resulting from consistently sitting cross-legged for long hours.
Symptoms:
Visit to a doctor for the following signs and symptoms may develop over time:
Bunions may also develop in young girls or boys between 10-15 years of age (adolescent bunions). However, unlike adults, there is no toe-movement restriction.
Risk Factors:
While the exact cause is unknown, the following factors may contribute to bunion development or worsening the condition:
Complications:
Although benign, bunions may sometimes cause the following complications:
Surgical Options:
Despite not requiring an overnight hospital stay, with recovery time for being able to perform daily activities, such as driving, being 6-12 weeks, surgery is usually only performed in case of frequent pain or interference with daily activities, and entirely unrecommended in adolescents due to continuing foot growth and a high recurrence rate. It is best if you consult with the best orthopedic surgeon in Karachi before you make any big decisions regarding this.
Patients may have to wear a cast or specially designed postoperative shoes that allow heel walking for a certain time to facilitate the bone and tissue healing process, post-surgery.
Complications:
A few patients (less than 10%) may experience stiffness in toe joints, delayed, wrong or defective healing, heel pain, foot nerve damage, prolonged swelling, burning pain and the need for further surgery
Since bunions rarely affect quality of life, and given the risks associated with surgery, at-home pain management is often the best solution in most cases. If you have bunions, consult with your doctor on the right treatment for you. You can also book an appointment with a Orthopedic Specialist in Lahore, Multan and Islamabad through oladoc.com,, or call our helpline at 042-3890-0939 for assistance to find the RIGHT Doctor for your skeletal concerns.
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