Bunions
Do you notice a lump on the side of your big toe that is progressively getting worse? Do you suffer with redness and/or pain of the big toe joint?
You may have a Bunion, or the Latin name of the deformity is called a Hallux Abducto Valgus (Hallux = big toe, Abducto = big toe moving towards the second toe, Valgus = big toe rotates inwards).
What is a Bunion?
A Bunion is a bony joint deformity at the base of the big toe, known as the 1st MetaTarsoPhalangeal (MTP) Joint. A Bunion is characterised by a deviation of the 1st metatarsal which then causes the big toe to move towards the little toes. The appearance of a ‘lump’ is actually the change in alignment of these bones.
Did you know that you can also get a Bunion on your little toe on the outside of your foot? This is called a Bunionette or a Tailor’s Bunion.
What's the Big Deal about the Big Toe?
The big toe (Hallux) is 4 times larger than the other toes in the foot as it needs to carry approx. half our body weight when walking and is responsible for around 80% of the stability in our feet.
The big toe allows us to absorb shock when we land and provide a rigid lever when we push off. It also assists in maintaining the body's balance when standing and produces power during propulsion.
The big toe has a strong connection to the rest of our body, applying the foundation for the stability of the joints further up the chain.
So next time you put on your socks, marvel at your big toe and how it keeps us moving every day!
What Causes a Bunion?
Bunions are a progressive condition that can be caused by a combination of the following factors:
Poor Biomechanics: The foot's ability to function during gait can effect the alignment of the big toe.
Hypermobility: When the joint's ligaments are loose (ligament laxity), they can cause instability in the big toe joint leading to the formation of a Bunion. ]
Footwear: Wearing tight and restrictive footwear for prolonged periods can lead to poor toe alignment and function.
Intrinsic foot strength: Weak foot muscles can lead to the formation of bunions
How can we help?
The treatment of Bunion’s is aimed at reducing pressure on the joint and improving the stability of the foot and ankle to limit the progression and complications of a Bunion.
Treatments are highly individualised but can include the following:
Footwear advice: Selecting footwear that allows the toes to splay and move naturally.
Strengthening exercises: Improve the strength and function of the foot and ankle muscles
Foot mobilisation therapy: There are 33 joints in each foot that were made to move but can become restricted with footwear
Orthotic Therapy: Orthotics can improve the foot's biomechnics and help reduce load to the painful area.
Padding & Strapping: To relieve pressure and support the joints
Toe spacers: Toe spreaders or spacers can be used to improve the toe's alignment and function.
