Bunions or Hallux Valgus
General
1. What are bunions or hallux valgus?
Bunions, also known as hallux valgus, are a foot deformity where the big toe deviates toward the other toes, forming a bony protrusion on the inner side of the foot. This condition can cause swelling, pain and other deformities in the fingers, such as claw or hammertoes.
2. How often are bunions found?
Bunions are one of the most common foot conditions, especially in people who wear closed shoes. They are more frequent in women, with an incidence 7 to 9 times higher than in men.
Solo puedo decir que fue una bendición conocer y confiarme a éstos maravillosos profesionales. Todo el equipo es excepcional con una calidad humana inigualable y ni que hablar de los resultados que han sido fantásticos.
Eternamente agradecida.
In September I had surgery on my both feet in the Clinica San Roman in Alicante, Spain. The surgeon removed the two halluxes and put my toes straight. I am very happy with the result of what he and his great team did for me.
The procedure itself plus the days after were almost painless. I slowly but steadily walked in the lovely neigbourhood around our appartment as soon as… the following day.
My feet are much better shaped than before with the big bunions.
Also I am very pleased with the kind and gentle way everybody addressed me. I have felt safe and looked after all the time.
Yesterday, not even two months after the surgery, I bought new shoes. Every time I look at my feet in these new shoes reminds me I made a wise decision to go to this clinic with its specialized staff. They have performed minimal invasive surgery for many years and use their skills and experience to help their patients big time.
I say: thank you very much.read more
Zeer profesioneel, uiterst vriendelijk en heel belangrijk ze nemen de tijd voor iedere patiënt.
Ook de nazorg is top ! 👍👍👍
3. How long have bunions been known?
Bunions have been recognized since ancient times. The oldest case dates back to ancient Egypt, around 2100 B.C., found in a mummy.. This deformity is less common in populations that do not wear shoes regularly.
4. Why are they called bunions?
The term “bunions” comes from the old farm workers where this deformity was common. “John” was a popular name among these workers, and the condition began to be referred to as “Johns disease” or “bunions.”
5. Why do bunions or hallux valgus occur?
Bunions develop due to the deviation of the first metatarsal inward and the big toe outward. This deformity is multifactorial, caused p
or genetic predisposition, foot type, use of inappropriate footwear, trauma and certain inflammatory diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis.
6. What are the main causes of bunions?
- Genetics: Up to 83% of cases have a family history.
- Footwear: Use of high heels and narrow toe shoes.
- Type of foot: Flat or valgus feet, hyperlaxity, and shortening of the first metatarsal.
- Trauma: Injuries to the foot.
- Inflammatory diseases: Rheumatoid arthritis, gout and psoriasis.
- Occupation: Jobs that require standing for long periods of time.
Symptoms and Diagnosis
7. What are the symptoms of bunions?
- Pain and swelling: Located on the outside of the first toe.
- Bony protrusion: Appearance of a protrusion on the inner side of the foot.
- Deviation of the big toe: May cause overlapping and additional deformities.
- Calluses and blisters: Due to constant rubbing with footwear.
- Stiffness and limitation of movement: Limitation of movement of the big toe.
- Associated deformities: claw or hammertoes.
8. Where do bunions appear?
Bunions
appear at the metatarsophalangeal joint of the first toe.
commonly known as the big toe. They can also appear on the fifth toe, known as Tailor’s bunions.
9. Where do bunions hurt?
E
he pain is mainly located in the bony bump and joint of the first toe.
There may be pain in the dorsal area of the foot due to pressure and rubbing with footwear.
10. How are bunions diagnosed?
- Physical examination: Visual evaluation of the foot.
- Anamnesis: Detailed medical history.
- X-rays: To evaluate the degree of deformity.
- Biomechanical study of the gait: analysis of load distribution during walking.
- Additional tests: Blood tests and vascular studies if necessary.
Prevention and Conservative Treatment
11. How to prevent bunions?
- Appropriate footwear: Comfortable shoes with enough room in the front.
- Orthopedic insoles: Correct the footprint.
- Exercise and stretching: Strengthen the muscles of the foot.
- Regular check-ups: Consult a podiatrist periodically.
12. What to do if I have bunions?
- Consult a specialist: To obtain an accurate diagnosis and treatment recommendations.
- Change footwear: Wear comfortable and wide shoes.
- Use braces: To relieve pain and maintain alignment of the big toe.
- Apply cold: To reduce inflammation and pain.
- Medications: Analgesics and anti-inflammatory drugs under medical supervision.
13. What shoes to wear?
- Comfortable and wide shoes: With enough room in the front.
- Good support: Adequate support on the back of the foot.
- Low heels: Preferably no higher than 5 cm.
- Thick sole: To cushion the impact when walking.
- Avoid excessive use of sandals: Limit their use to short distances in summer.
14. What to take for pain?
- Analgesics: Paracetamol or metamizole.
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): Ibuprofen or dexquetoprofen. Always consult a physician before taking any medication.
15. Where to buy bunion braces?
Bunion correctors can be found in pharmacies, orthopedic specialty stores and online. Consult a podiatrist for specific recommendations.
16. How can they be corrected or cured without surgery?
- Orthopedic insoles: To stabilize the joint of the first toe.
- Physical therapy exercises: To strengthen the muscles of the foot.
- Silicone spacers: To keep the fingers in a more natural position.
- Use of appropriate footwear: Avoid narrow-toed shoes and high heels.
17. Can laser surgery be performed?
The term “laser surgery” is often used to describe minimally invasive techniques, but lasers are not used in bunion surgery. Minimally invasive surgery uses small incisions and specialized tools
Surgical Treatment
18. What is minimally invasive surgery?
It is an advanced technique that uses small incisions to correct foot deformity, resulting in less tissue damage and faster recovery. Realigns the bones of the foot and eliminates bony protrusion
19. What type of anesthesia is used for bunion surgery?
Local anesthesia is generally used, which numbs only the area of the foot where the surgery is to be performed. In some cases, light sedation may be used.
20. What are the benefits of minimally invasive surgery?
- Minimal postoperative pain: Less tissue trauma.
- Rapid recovery: Patients can resume their daily activities more quickly.
- Fewer complications: Less risk of infections.
- Minimal scarring: Small incisions leave less visible scars.
- Outpatient surgery: No need for hospitalization.
- High success rate: Excellent long-term results.
21. Who operates on bunions?
Bunion surgery should be performed by podiatrists and orthopedic surgeons specialized in foot surgery, preferably with experience in minimally invasive techniques.
22. When can I drive or work after minimal incision surgery?
L
ecovery varies depending on the patient and the complexity of the procedure.
Many patients can resume daily activities within a few weeks, but full recovery may take 4 to 6 weeks.
23. Do operated bunions come back?
Recurrence is rare, especially if the surgery is performed properly and the patient follows postoperative recommendations, such as wearing appropriate footwear.
and avoid activities that may compromise recovery. However, in some cases, genetic and biomechanical factors may predispose to recurrence.
24. What type of rehabilitation is needed after surgery?
Rehabilitation includes:
- Physical therapy: To improve mobility and strengthen foot muscles.
- Stretching exercises: To maintain finger flexibility.
- Use of special footwear: Postoperative shoes during the first weeks.
- Wound care: Cleaning and dressing change according to the surgeon’s indications.
Additional Considerations
25. Are bunions hereditary?
Yes, there is a significant genetic predisposition to the appearance of bunions. If one or both parents have bunions, their children are more likely to develop them as well.
26. At what age do bunions usually appear?
Bunions can appear at any age, but are more common in young and older adults. In some cases, they may develop in adolescence, especially in people with a family history of the condition.
27. Can men have bunions?
S
Yes, although bunions are more common in women, men can also develop them.
The incidence is lower in men due to differences in footwear and foot structure.
28. How do bunions affect quality of life?
Bunions can cause chronic pain, difficulty finding appropriate footwear and limitations in daily activities. Can affect mobility and quality of life, especially if not adequately treated
29. What complications can arise if bunions are not treated?
- Additional deformities: Such as hammertoes or claw toes.
- Arthritis: Wear and tear of the metatarsophalangeal joint.
- Chronic pain: Increased pain and inflammation.
- Mobility problems: Difficulty walking and performing daily activities.
- Infections: In case of ulcers or open wounds.
30. What other foot problems can be associated with bunions?
- Hammertoes: Deformity of the second, third or fourth phalanx.
- Metatarsalgia: Pain in the front part of the foot.
- Morton’s neuroma: Compression of the nerve between the toes.
- Calluses and hardness: Due to constant rubbing with footwear.
- Bursitis: Inflammation of the serous sacs in the joint.
Myths and Realities
31. Is it true that bunions only develop from wearing uncomfortable shoes?
No, although improper footwear can aggravate the condition, bunions are multifactorial. Genetic and biomechanical factors also play a crucial role in its development.
32. Do bunions disappear with the use of insoles?
Orthotics can relieve symptoms and prevent worsening of the deformity, but they do not eliminate bunions. S
nly surgery can correct the deformity permanently.
33. Can bunions be treated with home remedies?
Home remedies can help relieve pain and inflammation, but do not correct the deformity. It is important to consult a specialist for proper treatment.
34. Do all bunions need surgery?
Not all bunions require surgery. Conservative treatments, such as the use of appropriate footwear, orthopedic insoles and exercises, may be sufficient to manage symptoms in many cases.
35. Is bunion surgery very painful?
Bunion surgery, especially minimally invasive bunion surgery, generally causes less pain than traditional techniques. Postoperative pain is manageable with analgesics and usually decreases significantly within a few days.
36. Can bunions reappear after surgery?
Although recurrence is rare, it can occur if postoperative recommendations are not followed or if predisposing genetic factors are present.. It is important to maintain proper footwear and perform rehabilitation exercises.
Conclusion
Bunions are a common condition that can significantly affect quality of life. It is essential to recognize symptoms early and seek appropriate treatment. Treatment options range from conservative measures to minimally invasive surgery, depending on the severity of the deformity and the patient’s symptoms. Consulting a podiatric specialist is crucial for an accurate diagnosis and an effective treatment plan.
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