Hallux valgus Facts for Kids

A bunion, also known as a hallux valgus, is a common foot problem. It happens when the bone or tissue around the joint at the base of your big toe gets bigger. This can make your big toe (hallux) point inward, towards your second toe. The area around the joint might also become swollen and red.

What is a Bunion?
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What is a Bunion?

A bunion is a bony bump that forms on the joint at the base of your big toe. This joint is called the metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint. When you have a bunion, your big toe starts to lean towards your other toes. This can make the joint stick out on the side of your foot.

Bunions can be painful, especially when you wear shoes. They can also make it hard to find shoes that fit well. Sometimes, the skin over the bunion can become red and sore.

Why Do Bunions Happen?

Bunions often run in families, meaning they can be passed down from parents to children. This suggests that the shape of your foot might make you more likely to get them.

Wearing shoes that are too tight or have pointed toes can also cause bunions. High heels are a common cause because they push your foot forward. This puts a lot of pressure on your toes. Over time, this pressure can force your big toe out of alignment.

Certain foot conditions, like flat feet, can also increase your risk. Injuries to the foot or conditions like arthritis can sometimes lead to bunions too.

What Are the Signs of a Bunion?

The most obvious sign of a bunion is a visible bump on the outside of your big toe joint. Other signs include:

Pain: You might feel pain or soreness around the bunion. This pain can get worse when you walk or wear shoes.
Redness and Swelling: The skin over the bunion can become red, swollen, and tender to the touch.
Calluses: Calluses or corns might form where your big toe and second toe rub together.
Limited Movement: It might become harder to bend your big toe.
Difficulty Wearing Shoes: Shoes that used to fit might now feel too tight or uncomfortable.

How Are Bunions Treated?

The good news is that many bunions can be treated without surgery. The main goal is to relieve pain and stop the bunion from getting worse.

Non-Surgical Treatments

Change Your Shoes: Wear shoes that are wide and have a lot of room for your toes. Avoid high heels and shoes with pointed toes.
Padding and Taping: You can use pads to cushion the bunion and reduce pressure. Taping your foot can help keep your toe in a better position.
Ice Packs: Applying ice to the bunion can help reduce swelling and pain.
Pain Relievers: Over-the-counter medicines like ibuprofen can help with pain and inflammation.
Toe Spacers: Small devices placed between your toes can help keep them separated and aligned.
Orthotics: Special shoe inserts can help support your foot and improve its alignment.

Surgical Treatments

If non-surgical treatments don't work and the bunion causes severe pain or makes it hard to walk, a doctor might suggest surgery. Bunion surgery aims to correct the alignment of the big toe and remove the bony bump. This is usually a last resort.

Can You Prevent Bunions?

While you can't change your genetics, you can take steps to reduce your risk of getting bunions or stop them from getting worse.

Choose the Right Shoes: Always pick shoes that fit well. Make sure they have a wide toe box and low heels. Your toes should have enough room to wiggle.
Listen to Your Feet: If your shoes feel uncomfortable or cause pain, don't wear them.