A bunion is an enlargement of the bone or tissue around the joint at the base of the big toe that causes a bump on the joint The big toe may turn toward the second toe (which is called displacement), and the tissues surrounding the joint may be swollen and tender or painful Bunions are much more common in women than in men with close to 90 percent of deformities occurring in women
Bunions that aren’t treated tend to get worse, causing pain that ranges from mild to severe. Bunions can also cause difficulty walking and affect your other toes as they progress. Often, surgical treatment is needed to correct bunions
For this reason, early-stage bunions should be diagnosed and treated by an orthopaedic specialist. Our orthopaedic surgeons have extensive experience in bunion surgery, including bunionectomy and realignment of the affected toes
In general, bunions are caused by foot mechanics that result in too much pressure on the big toe joint. Over time, the constant pressure forces the big toe out of alignment, gradually bending it toward the other toes. Common causes of bunions include:
- An inherited foot type (such as flat foot)
- Abnormal foot motion such as excessive pronation (rolling in of the foot)
- Tight or poorly-fitting shoes
- Previous foot injury
- Arthritis
Symptoms
- The area around the big toe joint may be red, swollen and/or painful
- A bump may form on the inside of the base of the big toe
- The big toe may be stiff, painful and difficult to bend
- The big toe may turn toward the second toe (displacement)
What are the treatments for Bunion?
Depending on the severity of your bunion, your physician may recommend non-surgical treatments such as wearing more accommodating shoes. However, if nonsurgical treatment doesn’t relieve your pain; if you’re unable to perform normal daily activities; or you develop a severe bone deformity, surgery may be necessary.
Bunion surgery is done to help restore normal alignment to the toe joint and relieve pain. Your orthopaedic surgeon will determine the appropriate procedure for you depending on the severity of the bunion and whether it is causing deformity and/or pain.
There are different treatments depending on condition which Dr.Kevin yip will advise during the consultation, if there is a need for a treatment or surgery. For an appointment with Dr.Kevin yip please call +65 6471 2691(24hours)