A bunion is a bone deformity caused by an enlargement of the joint at the base and side of the big toe (metatarsophalangeal joint). Bunions form when the toe moves out of place. The enlargement and its protuberance cause friction and pressure as they rub against footwear.
Over time, the movement of the big toe angles in toward the other toes, sometimes overlapping a third toe (known as Hallux Valgus). The growing enlargement or protuberance then causes more irritation or inflammation.
Treating bunions has become a simple and often painless procedure with surgical advancements. Also there are many options besides surgery to treat a bunion. There are also great treatment options for children who may be prone to developing a bunion in the future.
Call Northern Foot & Ankle today and set an appointment with one of our board certified podiatrists to review treatment options for your bunions. Your feet don’t have to hurt.
Tailor’s Bunion
A tailor’s bunion is a bunion which occurs on the little toe and is often referred to as a bunionette. While this name sounds quaint, it is no less painful than its big toe cousin.
The bunion is caused by the displacement of the head of the metatarsal bone, with the accompanying formation of new bone. As the joint gets larger, it can be the cause of chronic pain and can become sore, inflamed and tender. Sometimes the bunion can become additionally swollen if the bursa, a fluid filled membrane around the joint, becomes inflamed. This is often referred to as bursitis.
The tailor’s bunion got its name because it was a frequent ailment in the clothing industry. Many hours spent in a cross-legged position on hard floors while making clothes resulted in the development of this condition. When sitting cross-legged, the weight of the legs is placed on the contact points, such as the joint of the little toe. Over time the little toe started to bend inwards and the bone to protrude outwards, often with a considerable degree of bunion pain.
Treating a tailor’s bunion has become a simple and often painless procedure with surgical advancements. Also there are many treatment options besides surgery.
Call Northern Foot & Ankle today and set an appointment with one of our board certified podiatrists to review treatment options for your tailor’s bunions. Your feet don’t have to hurt.