Bunions are primarily a genetic foot structure that is inherited from mom or dad. We see that it can skip generations as well. There seems to be a misconception that the bunion is just a growth on the side of the foot. However, this is not true. The bunion is a misalignment of the first metatarsal. It occurs when the first metatarsal separates or begins to deviate from the second metatarsal towards the other foot. This in turn causes the big toe to deviate or point towards the second digit. The growth or bump that one sees is the first metatarsal pointing out of the joint. This concept is important to understand as it will make sense when I discuss bunion correction.
Bunion correction refers to removal or reversal of the bunion. Well now that you understand it is a deviation, more correctly a progressive deviation of the first metatarsal, you can see why certain things will not correct a bunion. I have seen all sorts of strapping, taping and splinting techniques to correct a bunion. Now that it is clear this is a movement of a bone you can clearly see why none of this works. It is not possible to move the first metatarsal back into place once it has deviated via any sort of appliance or device you apply to the outside of the foot. Once the bone has moved the only option to correct the bunion is surgical.
Surgical correction of the bunion is the only way to reverse this misalignment. This is the only avenue we have to bring the big toe back into the correct orientation. There are many different techniques based on the size of the bunion and the rest of the foot structure. If you have a bunion and need help please schedule an appointment. Give us a call at 425-391-8666 or make an appointment online today.
Sincerely,
