Bunions:

A bunion an enlargement of the joint at the base and side of the big toe - (specifically what is called the first metatarsophalangeal joint). Bunions form when the toe moves out of place. As the big toe bends towards the other toes this lump becomes larger and the bunions can become painful. Hallux valgus or hallux abducto valgus (HAV) is the name used to describe this deviated position of the big toe and a bunion refers to the enlargement of the joint - most of the time the two go together and can just be referred to as 'bunions'.

Bunions are caused by a combination of factors - usually considered as a combination of poor foot biomechanics, poor footwear and a hereditary tendency. Anyone of these on their own is probably not enough to be a sole cause. Footwear is the main determinant of how bad it can get and also provide the pressure, that causes a lot of the pain from the bunions.

More information on bunions from ePodiatry and you can ask a question about bunions on the Foot Health Forum. Health professionals can get the latest on bunions, hallux valgus and hallux valgus surgery at Podiatry Arena or hallux abducto valgus at Podiatry Portal.

Croydon Total Footcare have a wide range of options for the management of the bunion including advice about bunion surgery. More information on bunion surgery here. Non-surgical, surgical and bunion surgery options can be discussed.